The city of Medellín in Colombia is a place that is full of culture, history, and natural beauty. There are so many things to do and see in this city that it can be hard to know where to start!

I spent over a month in Medellín and still felt like there was more to explore! In this blog post, I’ll provide a detailed list of the 30 best things to do in Medellín, Colombia based on my personal experience.

At the bottom of this post, I’ve also included some information on where to stay and tips for making the most of your trip to this amazing Latin American destination.

Don’t Miss: Ultimate Accommodation Guide for Where to Stay (best neighborhoods)

30 Best Things to do in Medellín, Colombia

1. Visit Comuna 13 - My Favorite Thing to do in Medellín

Comuna 13 is a neighborhood in Medellín that was once one of the most dangerous areas in the city. Today, it is a vibrant community with amazing street art, great views, and a lively atmosphere.

I put this activity first because visiting Comuna 13 truly is my most recommended thing to do in Medellín city. Taking an affordable walking tour through the comuna gives visitors the unique opportunity to learn about Medellín's history and be inspired by the positive change that has occurred over the past decade.

Book: Best-rated Medellín Comuna 13 Tour (includes cable car, Comuna 13 & graffiti tour)

2. The Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico de Medellín)

Visiting the Medellín Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico de Medellín) is one of the best things to do in Medellín on a sunny day. The gardens span over 100 acres and include more than 200 species of flowers and plants.

While I haven't seen very many, a lot of people say that this is the best Botanical Garden in South America, and even in all of Latin America!

You will want to see the unique Orquidoeroama Mesh structure, which is a genius design allowing for the collection of rainwater and protection of orchids and butterflies.

3. The Cable Cars - Medellín Metrocable

One of the things that makes Medellín so unique is its cable cars– called Metrocables. There are actually four lines, but my favorite is Line K which connects the Medellín River to the steep hills of Santo Domingo Savio, a barrio on the edge of the city.

The ride offers incredible views of the city and is definitely one of the top attractions for visitors.

If you take the highly-acclaimed Comuna 13 tour above, you'll also get a trip on the cable car included (with a local guide).

4. Wander Around Poblado

El Poblado is Medellín's most popular neighborhood. This is an upper-class area that attracts most tourists due to its sprawling shopping complexes, restaurants, and bars.

Chances are, you'll be staying in El Poblado anyway. So, take a walk around the neighborhood's streets and enjoy the view (or stop for a coffee or cocktail).

And if you're looking for what to do in Medellín at night, head down to Parque Lleras (below) for a lively nightclub scene.

Tip: Skip to the where to stay section for the top accommodation picks.

5. Hike Up Cerro de las Tres Cruces (Hill of Three Crosses)

Looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and do some hiking?

Walking to the top of Cerro de las Tres Cruces (Hill of Three Crosses) is one of the most popular hikes in Medellín. The hike to the summit only takes about an hour, and it's a great way to get some exercise while enjoying stunning views of the city below.

At the top of the hill, you'll find a large outdoor gym and workout area, which makes for the most scenic place to train in Medellín!

6. Paragliding Over the Medellín Mountains

Looking for the most adventurous activity to do in Medellín?

Why not go paragliding over the city's stunning mountains?

There are a few companies in town that offer tandem paragliding rides, so it's a great activity for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Be sure to book your flight well in advance, as spaces tend to fill up quickly!

Book: Tandem Paragliding Trip

7. Salsa Dancing

Did you really go on a trip through Latin America without trying salsa dancing? Truthfully, there's no better place to learn how to salsa than in Colombia's second-largest city!

Throughout the city, there are plenty of clubs and bars that offer salsa classes. Visitors will find many of these in or around El Poblado. However, you can also take a private lesson if you want more one-on-one instruction.

Book: Salsa dancing experience

8. Day Trip to Guatapé

Looking for the most scenic day trip from Medellín. If you read any guidebook, blog, or Medellín travel guide, you'll find a visit to Guatapé recommended (usually at the top)

Guatapé is a charming pueblo at the feet of the Andes mountains. It's located just outside of Medellín and therefore most people tend to visit on a quick trip. It's the perfect place to spend a day if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

There are plenty of things to do in Guatapé, including hiking up El Peñón de Guatapé (the big rock with the famous, steep staircase), checking out the colorful buildings, and taking a boat cruise on the lake.

If you're looking for a Medellín travel guide that includes things to do outside of the city, then be sure to add Guatapé to your list!

Book: Best-rated Guatape Day Trip (includes transport and boat cruise)

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Related: How to get to Guatapé (4 options from Medellín)

9. Hacienda Napoles Theme Park

While Hacienda Napoles was once a luxurious countryside estate owned by Pablo Escobar, it has now been transformed into a fun and very popular theme park. Here, you'll find a waterpark with fun rides and even a small zoo.

However, Hacienda Napoles is located a fair stretch from the city, and it'll take about 4 hours to get here! However, the drive out here is well worth it for beautiful country scenes.

10. Choto's Cafe

As you might expect from one of the world's largest coffee-producing countries, the coffee culture in Colombia is huge!

You'll find loads of vibrant cafes ranging from small hole-in-the-wall nooks to upper-class coffee shops with a western hipster vibe.

However, if you're looking for the most unique cafe in Medellín, go check out Choto's Cafe in Comuna 13. Choto is one of Colombia's most famous street artists and is a community leader inspiring positive change through art. His vision is represented through his cafe, where you'll find street art and unique projects made from recycled materials by local kids and artists.

Tip: you'll likely stop by this establishment on a tour through Comuna 13 (number 1).

11. Medellín Graffiti Tour

Okay, I'm doubling up slightly here.

Yes, you'll see some of Medellín's best graffiti on the famous Comuna 13 tour. However, the truth is that the city is rich with amazing and vibrant art and it extends much further than just this district.

If you want to see great street art, head down to Laureles, Belén, or El Poblado.

12. Plaza Minorista Market

This is one of the most vibrant markets in Medellín Colombia. If you're looking for souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, or a taste of Colombian culture, this is the place to go.

Wander through the stalls and haggle with the vendors for the best prices on beautiful things made by locals.

You'll find Plaza Minorista Market located right on the edge of the Medellín river near the district of Estacion Villa and just opposite the Parque Natural Cerro el Volador and the Universidad Nacional de Colombia Sede.

13. Live Like a Local in Laureles

Looking to wander off the gringo trail in El Poblado and would prefer to stay somewhere a little more authentic? One of your best options will be the middle-upper class university district of Laureles (Laureles - Estadio).

Characterized by its lively atmosphere, interesting architecture, and trendy restaurants and bars, it's a great place to spend some time if you want to experience local life in Medellín.

14. Try Bandeja Paisa - (local Dish)

No trip to Medellín (or Colombia) would be complete without trying the national dish– bandeja paisa. This is a dish that originated in the Antioquia region and is a national staple!

This hearty meal consists of a large platter of food including beans, rice, avocado, plantain, chicharron (pork belly), steak, sausage, an arepa, and a fried egg.

While I haven't yet tried all these spots, this list should have you covered for awesome Bandeja Paisa in Medellín.

• Maru Rico in Guayabal
• Mondongo's (Poblado)
• El Rancherito (nine locations)

15. Explore Parque de los Pies Descalzos

Also known as the "Park of Bare Feet", this is a unique and beautiful park in Medellín. It's named for the fact that visitors are encouraged to take their shoes off and enjoy walking barefoot on the grass, stones, and water features.

This Medellín experience is meant to be just that, a tactile experience designed to let you get closer to nature.

The park is designed with natural materials like bamboo, stone, and wood, and it has a number of nice water features, including a river and pond.

Don't Miss:

San Andres Island in Colombia

16. Join in on a Free Walking Tour

Looking for something to do in Medellín for free? Why not join in on one of the many free walking tours throughout the city?

There are a number of companies offering free walking tours, and they're a great way to learn about Medellín's history, culture, and architecture.

Of course, like with any "free" walking tour in Latin America, or anywhere in the world for that matter, you still should leave a tip to the local guide.

17. Watch a Game of Fútbol at Atanasio Girardot Stadium

Football (soccer) is a huge sport in Colombia, and there's no better place to watch a game than in Medellín.

The city has two professional football teams– Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín – and both have passionate fan bases and share the same stadium.

A game at the Atanasio Girardot stadium is an experience you won't soon forget. On the plus side, tickets are usually quite cheap, and you can pick them up at the stadium an hour or so before kick off. Just be ready for a rowdy and passion-fueled night!

18. Santo Domingo & Biblioteca España

You already know that the Line K Santo Domingo cable car route is my personal favorite. Hoewever, it's not just great views you'll get at the top.

Biblioteca España is a cultural center that's home to a library, an art gallery, and a performance space. The building itself is worth a visit, but if you're interested in culture and the arts, this is definitely the place for you.

19. Ride the Medellín Metro

Forget about what you think you know about metropolitan Medellín.

The Medellín metro is one of the most efficient, clean, and safe public transportation systems in South America. It's also incredibly cheap, and a great way to get around the city.

If you're staying in El Poblado, you can easily take the metro to any of the other neighborhoods. Taking the metro is one of the best ways to see the city.

20. Visit Parque Lleras

If you're looking for a night out on the town, there's no better place to go than Parque Lleras. This lively park in El Poblado is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in Medellín.

It's also one of the most popular places for people to gather, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you're up for a beer or even a night out to the many nightclubs, this is the perfect place.

21. Day Trip To A Traditional Coffee Plantation

Medellín is located in the heart of Colombia's coffee country, so it would be a shame to visit and not take a day trip to one of the many traditional coffee plantations.

If this seems like your kind of activity, then I highly recommend booking a day trip.

On a tour, you'll learn about the process of growing and harvesting coffee, as well as get to taste some of the best coffee in the world.

Book: Coffee Tour With Tastings and Lunch (from Medellín Colombia)

22. Antiquian Street Food Tour

For all the foodies out there, you already know South America is a gem for unique and delicious street foods.

In Medellín, you'll find some of the best examples of Antiquian street food like arepas (a type of cornbread), empanadas, amales, and much more.

I highly recommend the below street food tour. This is run by a local from the city and you will take all the guesswork out of finding the best stalls and vendors!

Book: E-bike street food tour with a local (the best stalls)

23. Try a Crema (home-Made Ice Cream)

Crema is a homemade ice cream that you'll find being sold almost everywhere in the city. The people from Medellín associate crema with their grandmothers, as a crema is what the grannies would persuade the children with to behave!

For this reason, I was told by a local that he wouldn't purchase a crema from any stall or shop in the city unless it had a "grandma" name.

One of my favorites is the Crema de Guayaba. This a dessert made with guava, cream, sugar and spices. It's one of the most popular desserts in Medellín and can be found at many street stalls throughout the city.

It's definitely worth trying during your time in Medellín!

24. El Centro (La Candelaria)

El Centro, also known as La Candelaria, is the historical center of Medellín and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It's a great place to walk around, explore colonial architecture, and learn about the history of Medellín Colombia.

There are also a number of museums in El Centro including the famous Cada de la Memoria.

One thing you should know about El Centro is that it is recognized as being one of the most unsafe neighborhoods in Medellín. While the city is generally safe during the day, I'd avoid walking around El Centro at night.

25. Go Quad Biking in the Colombian Countryside

If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, or just to get out of the city and into the Colombian countryside, then quad biking is a great option.

There are a number of tour companies that offer quad biking tours in the Medellín countryside.

The tours typically include transportation to and from Medellín, as well as all the necessary equipment. Below I've included a link to the best-rated quad biking tour in Medellín.

Book: ATV Trip in the Countryside (from Medellín)

26. Parque Arví

A visit to Parque Arví, located in the hills overlooking Medellín, is a must for nature lovers. The park is home to over 15,000 species of plants and animals, as well as numerous hiking trails.

The best and cheapest way to get to Parque Arví is to take the Medellín metro system. From Poblado station, expect a roughly 1-hour journey to get to the park.

Firstly, you'll want to take the A line to Acevedo station. Next, transfer to the K-Line to take the metrocable to Santo Domingo. From here, transfer again to the L Line and get off at Parque Arví.

The park is open every day from 08:00 am – 04:00 pm. The admission cost to the park is free however tours within the park cost $40,000 COP for foreigners and $13,000 for national visitors.

However, it's generally a good idea to avoid Saturdays and Sundays if you can help it since this is by far, the busiest time to visit.

27. Plaza Botero

One of the most iconic places in Medellín, Plaza Botero is home to 23 bronze sculptures from Fernando Botero. Fernando Botero is a Medellín-native and is one of the most famous Latin American artists in the world.

The sculptures were donated by Botero himself and they are all placed throughout the plaza. The largest sculpture, El Caballo (The Horse), is located in front of the Palacio de Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe.

The plaza is located in the heart of El Centro and is a great place to people-watch, grab a tasty empanada, or take some photos.

28. Museo de Antiquia

This museum is one of the most popular in Medellín and for good reason. The Museo de Antiquia houses a large collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from all over Colombia.

The Museo de Antiquia is located in the El Poblado neighborhood and is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm. Admission is free on Sundays.

The museum is divided into four main galleries: Prehistory, Metallurgy, Pottery, and Stone. Each gallery is filled with interesting and unique pieces.

29. Pueblito Paisa

Right before we round up this travel guide featuring all the epic great to do in Medellín is one more hill in the heart of the city. Pueblito Paisa is a tiny replica of a traditional Antioquian village and is is located named Cerro Nutibara.

This is a great place to visit to see colorful buildings and get a taste for traditional architecture. There is also a small museum on-site chronicling the history of the city.

However, perhaps the biggest draw to this attraction is the incredible view from the top. Due to the central location, you'll get amazing views over the city and its many comunas and barrios.

30. Party!

Colombians love to party, and Medellín is one of the best places in the country to let your hair down and have some fun. For a great time, head down to Parque Lleras in El Poblado and start off with a beer at one of the outdoor dining areas.

Alternatively, why not let a local show you how it's done? Below I've linked to the funnest pub crawl in town! It also goes up to some of the best rooftop bars in the city, which is definitely worth it just for the view!

Book: Rooftop Pub Crawl

What About Pablo Escobar Tours?

If you're a fan of history like me, then you'll probably be very interested in learning about Pablo Escobar when you're in the city.

However, the local people of Medellín really, really don't like talking about him, or celebrating his history for that matter. If you think about it from a Colombian's perspective, this totally makes sense. This man brought a lot of pain, suffering, and death to these communities.

For this reason, Pablo Escobar tours are discouraged in Medellín and in most of Colombia. Of course, you'll still find a few attractions and tours, but generally speaking, it's best to avoid them.

Where to Stay in Medellín - Accommodation Guide

The most popular area to stay in Medellín is El Poblado. This is the main tourist district and features plenty of great cafes, nightclubs, restaurants, and activities.

However, if you're the type who would prefer to detour from the gringo trail, check out Laureles (my favorite), Envigado, or Belén. Below are four great recommendations. However, I recommend checking out my detailed accommodation guide here for more options.

• Elcielo Hotel & Restaurant - The ultimate luxury experience in El Poblado. This is the top-rated 5-star hotel in the city and combines lush greens with a modern wood interior for the perfect luxury ambiance.
• 23 Hotel Medellin - A mid-range jungle-themed hotel with a roof-top pool and access to a hot tub overlooking El Poblado.
• Hotel Casa Laureles - The best-rated hotel in the alternative neighborhood of Laureles. Excellent 4-star luxury for a fraction of the price.
• Rango Hostel Boutique - Probably the best backpacker hostel in Medellín. Features an epic rooftop bar and plenty of co-work and common spaces to hang out.

Is Traveling in Medellín Safe?

While Medellín was once the most dangerous city in the world, the city seems to have done a complete 180! Today, Medellín is one of the safest cities in South America and attracts thousands of tourists, ex-pats, and digital nomads.

Traveling in the city is generally very safe, as long as you keep your regular precautions and wits about you.

This means avoiding getting blackout drunk, wandering the streets alone at night, or flashing your riches in poor neighborhoods.

Tips for Visiting Medellín in Colombia

Does Medellín Colombia sound like a city you'd like to visit? Here are a few tips that'll make your travels easier and more enjoyable:

• Ubers are illegal in Colombia but are still widely used. As a result, make sure to get in the front when hopping in.
• The Medellín metro system is one of the best in Latin America and is very safe. Make sure to use it to get around!
• If you're flying in, you'll likely be landing in the José María Córdova International Airport. This is about 45 minutes outside of the city.
• Try your best to speak Spanish! English is not widely spoken in the city but locals will always respect you for trying, even if you're a beginner.
• Buy a phone sim if you're staying a while. The best telecoms company is Claro, and you can get a sim with 10GB of data for under $15 USD (prepaid).
• Rappi is South America's alternative to Uber Eats and is much cheaper. Everywhere you go in the city you'll see Rappi drivers with their iconic orange backpacks.
• WIFI varies but is generally very good. If you work online or are a digital nomad, this is a great city!
• Fresh fruit and vegetables is widely available and are very cheap. Go try some fresh smoothies or juices!

Best Time to Visit Medellín

The city of Medellín has some of the most comfortable and stable climates in the world.

It's located in the Aburrá Valley (Valle de Aburrá), in the Central Cordillera Mountains of the Colombian Andes. This puts Medellín at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level, resulting in a stable climate with an average temperature of around 22.2 degrees Celsius.

For this reason, Medellín has been nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring.

However, due to its sub-tropical climate, you will experience variations in rainfall throughout the year. Generally, the wet seasons runs from April to May and September to November.

The driest season is from December to February, which is also considered the best time to visit Medellín.

How to Get Around to All of Medellín's Attractions

If you've already read this travel guide, then you'll know that taking the city's well-organized and unique public transport systems are actually some of the best things to do in Medellín!

I highly recommend taking the Metro system to hop around the districts. If you want to head up and see some of the hill districts (including Comuna 13), then the cable car is also one of the best ways to get around.

Taxis and Uber are also found all throughout the city. I've found Uber to be a little cheaper, but taxis are also fine since they are all metered.

FAQs about Travel in Medellín

More Things to do in Colombia

That's a wrap for my comprehensive travel guide featuring 30 awesome things to do in Medellín, Colombia. I hope it has inspired you to get off the beaten path and explore this incredible city!

While you're still here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides to Colombia and Latin America below. If you're wondering where to head next, check out Minca in the north!

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro de las Tres Cruces Hike in Medellín (Hill of Three Crosses) - Complete Guide
• Comuna 13 Tour in Medellín - Everything you Need to Know (2022)
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• La Cazuela - Awesome Guatapé Waterfall (Colombia)
• Visiting Pueblito Paisa Medellín: Everything You Need to Know
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Looking for an amazing side trip from your visit to Medellín? Make sure to stop by Guatapé, Colombia! This incredible Antioquian town is known for its vibrant streets, traditional street art (called Zócalos), beautiful lake, and of course, its giant rock called La Piedra del Peñol.

However, the truth is that there are just so many more things to do in Guatapé.

That’s why, in this article, I will provide you with 37 inspiring ideas to make sure you make the most of your visit. Furthermore, I’ve also included a comprehensive Guatapé travel guide including how to get here, what to do and see, where to stay, and how long to visit!

About the Small Town of Guatapé Colombia

Guatapé, or the "Pueblo de Zocalos", is a small town located in the Antioquia department of Colombia. With just over 20,000 inhabitants, it's one of the most picturesque and colorful towns in the country.

Located in the rolling hills of the lush Colombian countryside, Guatapé was not much more than a small country pueblito, until it was purposefully flooded in 1970 to create the famous dam (lake).

Today, it serves as a popular tourist destination and is famous worldwide for its beautiful lake– which is often called the "Pearl of Antioquia", its colorful zocalos, delicious food, and La Piedra del Peñol (the huge rock that overlooks the town).

However, as you'll discover in this Guatapé travel guide, there is so much more to do and see, especially if you are a fan of adventure travel!

Don't Miss: Where to stay in Medellín (best neighborhoods)

How to Get to Guatapé

The most convenient way to get here is to take a trip from Medellín.

Generally, there are four main options.

• Book a day trip from Medellín - best for those short on time
• Take the public bus - the cheapest option
• Take a taxi - 270,000 pesos fixed-rate (any driver)
• Rent a car - if you are confident driving in Colombia! (I recommend searching Discover Cars)

Below I'll give you a quick rundown on the first two options. However, if you want a more detailed explanation, I've also written a detailed and up-to-date guide on how to get here from Medellín.

Local Bus From Medellín Bus Station

If you're looking for the cheapest way to get to Guatapé, taking the local bus is your best option.

The bus station is called Terminal del Norte (north terminal). You can take a taxi or Uber here quite easily from anywhere in the city for under 18,000 COP.

Alternatively, take advantage of Medellín's reliable and safe metro system to get to Caribe Metro Station. This joins Terminal del Norte. Once you arrive, walk downstairs and head to kiosk number 14. The fee is 17,000 pesos per person.

The buses run pretty much all day long and will drop you off right in the heart of town!

Tip: There's a ticket booth where you get dropped off. You can purchase your ticket back to Medellín here.

37 Fun Things to do in Guatapé, Colombia

With the logistics out of the way, let's dive into this comprehensive travel guide for things to do in Guatapé!

This list of 37 activities includes all the main attractions, as well as some off-the-beaten-path hidden gems, so there's something for every traveler.

1. Climb to the Top of the Rock (La Piedra del Peñol)

One of the most popular things to do in Guatapé is to hike up the famous rock. This is arguably the most famous attraction in the region.

The rock of Guatapé is known as La Piedra del Peñol and it is a single mass and standing at an impressive 200 meters (656 ft). If you make it to the top, you'll get amazing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

The hike itself is much more of a stair walk than a strenuous rock climbing stint. It's also pretty short and only takes around 15-30 minutes to reach the top. However, it can obviously be quite strenuous for some as there are a total of 650 steep stairs to make it to the top of the rock.

The entrance fee is 20,000 COP ($5.20 USD) per person, and you pay at the base.

2. The Guatapé Sign

Perhaps the most iconic thing to do in Guatapé, Colombia is to take a photo of the famous sign. The colorful letters that spell out Guatape sit on the edge of the lake along the eastern end of the Malecòn (concrete boardwalk).

As you might expect, this is one of the most photographed places in town. As a result, it can get a little busy.

We walked past this sign numerous times a day during our visit and there were always tourists here getting a selfie or family photo.

3. Take a Boat Tour Past Pablo Escobar's Mansion

Guatapé lake (Embalse Guatapé) is huge! It's actually the second-largest reservoir in Colombia. The lake was created in the 1970s when a dam was built on the Río Guatapé.

The result is an absolutely massive body of water and one of the best ways to explore it is to take a boat tour.

There are several companies offering private boat tours from the waterfront. The cost varies but we paid 25,000 COP per person for a 1-hour tour around some of the islands.

We also stopped by Pablo Escobar's mansion, which was bombed in 1993 and has been left as rubble.

If you've booked the organized day tour above, you'll get a boat trip included!

4. Calle del Recuerdo (Memory Lane)

Calle del Recuerdo, or Memory Lane, is one of the most picturesque streets in Guatapé. While almost every building in Guatape town features zócalos, the colorful cobblestone streets of Calle del Recuerdo is the most famous.

Zócalos are traditional Colombian paintings that depict a scene or tell a story and are found on the side of buildings throughout Guatapé and other parts of Colombia.

If you're looking for the most colorful street in town, this is the spot!

5. Plaza Del Zocalo in Guatapé Town

Plazoleta de Los Zócalos, or Plaza del Zocalo, is the colorful square in Guatapé and home to some more famous zócalos in town. This is a great place to people watch and take photos of the colorful buildings.

There's also an excellent cafe with a balcony view which serves some of the best coffee I've ever tried (I bought a 500g bag of their beans for 25,000 COP - $6.60).

This square connects to Calle del Rucuerdo and is where you will find the colorful umbrellas you will likely have seen on Instagram already.

6. Rent a Motorbike & Explore the Countryside

Guatapé is located in a beautiful rural area of Colombia and the best way to explore the lush green hills and nearby villages is by motorbike.

We rented a scooter from a company called Guatapé Motos for 60,000 Colombian pesos per day ($16 USD). Yes, this was a bit pricey, but we are still glad we did it.

Once you've got your set of two wheels, there are plenty of things to see and do. The guys at the rental shop gave us a hand-drawn map with some of the highlights. Below are some things you can check out that are just a short stretch from town.

• El Peñol
• San Rafael
• Rio Bizcocho
• La Cazuela Waterfall
• Guatapé viewpoint

I've included quite a few of these attractions in the list below. So, keep reading for more inspiration.

Related:

25 Awesome Things to do on San Andres Island (Colombia)

7. Visit San Rafael

San Rafael is a small town located about 15 kilometers from Guatapé. It's a much-less visited town than others in the region, and as a result, offers an authentic countryside Antioquia experience.

Getting here by motorbike is quite easy along the quiet but winding country roads. It took us roughly 45 minutes by scooter at a leisurely speed.

San Rafael is a steep-hill town with a few small cafes and bakeries worth checking out. Also, like with most towns in this region, in the main square, you'll find a beautiful white church.

Tip: San Rafael is known for its traditional religious processions, which take place every year on Good Friday. The procession consists of a statue of Jesus Christ being carried through the streets on the shoulders of locals. If you're in Guatape during Holy Week, be sure to check it out!

8. La Cazuela Waterfall

La Cazuela waterfall is a beautiful and serene spot located about 40 minutes from Guatapé by scooter or motorbike.

This awesome waterfall and freshwater swimming spot is very much a hidden gem. As a result, you won't find many tourists here.

The road to the waterfall is a little bumpy and Google maps won't be very helpful either. If you're set on checking out this awesome Guatapé attraction, make sure to check out my guide (link above).

9. Swim at Rio Bizcocho

Rio Bizcocho is a beautiful freshwater swimming spot located about 30 minutes from Guatapé. I'm not sure where the river got its name from, because it's definitely not shaped like a cake (bizcocho in Spanish).

While you can swim in Guatapé lake, a trip to the Rio Bizcocho swimming spot is definitely a more enjoyable experience. Here, you'll find tranquil and clean waters, and even a few rocks to jump off.

To get here by motorbike or scooter, simply head toward San Rafael. Here are the exact GPS coordinates: 6.2939056,-75.0669167.

10. Hike to the Best View Point in Guatapé

You won't find this mirador in other Guatapé travel guides or blogs!

If you're looking for an epic view of the Pueblo with El Peñol in the background, I've got a spot for you. It's located on the green hills just above the town to the east.

Again, here are the exact GPS locations to make it easy to find: 6.247188, -75.144692.

However, to get to the trail (which is more of a road), you'll want to cross the bridge to the east, (on Guatapé-San Rafael Road), then take the second right turn down a dirt road.

From here, continue all the way up the hill until you reach the viewpoint. If you turn around at any time, you'll get a great view. However, trust me when I say the amazing views are at the top are the best!

This hike is roughly 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometers) from town. But, much of it can be covered by motorbike if you're renting one.

11. Try Paragliding

For the more adventurous and thrill-seeker types, Guatapé offers some great paragliding opportunities when visiting Colombia.

There are a few companies that offer tandem flights for those who want to experience this epic sport for themselves.

The best part is, paragliding is super affordable in this part of South America, and the views are absolutely insane!

Book: Paragliding + Guided Tour (From Medellín)

12. Go Rock Climbing in Guatapé

If you're looking for an epic advenutre activity to do in Guatapé, then rock climbing is the perfect option.

Leave the stair walkers behind and jump on a guided rock climbing tour in the link below.

Book: Guided rock climbing tour

13. Helicopter Flight Over Guatapé

Looking for an aerial perspective of Guatapé, El Peñol, and the stunning lake? Then, a helicopter flight is a perfect activity.

In fact, this is one of the most popular things to do in Guatapé! A helicopter departs from just underneath La Piedra del Peñol.

The experience only lasts about 15 minutes, which is pretty quick. However, this means it's also quite affordable, especially compared to flights in other countries.

Book: Helicopter tour of the countryside & El Peñol

14. Stay Overnight at a Lake View Hotel or Hostel

If you've just come from the hustle-and-bustle of Medellín, then the quickest way to unwind and get back in touch with nature is to stay at one of the many lakeside hotels or hostels.

There are quite a few Guatapé accommodation options with stunning views over the lake and they vary from very expensive to budget-friendly lake view hostels.

Skip to: Guatapé Accommodation Guide

15. Eat at Thai Terrace

Colombian food is amazing. However, if you've been in the country a while like me, you'll undoubtedly be missing a fresh Asian curry.

Luckily (and strangely), one of the best Thai restaurants in all of Colombia is located right on the edge of Guatapé. You'll find it just above a hostel called Lake View Hostel, which is one of the most popular backpacker places in town.

Food is a little pricey at this Thai restaurant, but definitely worth it if you've been craving delicious Thai food like Pad Thai or Green Curry!

16. Hire a Jet Ski

If you're up for more adrenaline-fueled fun on the lake, head down to the shore and rent jet skis!

This is one of the things I didn't do personally but I'd say it's definitely one of the best ways to explore the area on the water.

17. Catch a Tuk Tuk Ride

One thing that surprised me was that you can find tuk tuks (motor-trike taxis) everywhere in Guatapé! This brought me back to our time backpacking in India and South East Asia, where similiarly, this is the cheapest and easiest way to get around!

You can pay a tuk tuk driver to take you to many of the sites and attractions I've mentioned in this travel guide. The most common route is to El Peñol, which usually costs 10,000 for the trip.

18. The Artisanal Boutique Stores

Wondering the colorful streets of Guatapé, you'll undoubtedly stumble across many artisanal boutique stores. If you're looking for a souvenir, you'll find some of the best shops on the streets just around the main square.

Here, you'll find everything from hand-crafted jewelry to traditional Colombian clothing. Be sure to haggle a little bit as prices are usually quite high, especially for gringos and gringas.

19. Buy Colombian Coffee

It's no secret that Colombia produces some of the best coffee in the world. Since it's located in the "coffee belt", Guatapé is the perfect place to stock up on some of Colombia's best beans.

You'll find a few small tiendas (stores) around town that sell locally roasted coffee, and even better– it's really affordable!

Of course, the stores take a cut. But at the end of the day, you're supporting an entire industry while getting some of the best coffee on the planet.

20. Dinner Boat Cruise

For those traveling to Guatapé as a couple and looking for a romantic evening out, consider dinner on a boat cruise.

There are many different boats that offer this service and the best ones usually sail around Guatapé Dam and back. You'll be able to find these boats in the harbor near the main square.

The dinner cruise generally includes a meal and drinks.

21. Go Canyoneering

What? You can even go canyoning here? Yes!

Canyoning, or Canyoneering, is essentially hiking, climbing, and rappelling down waterfalls and flowing rivers/gorges. As far as I'm aware, there's only one tour company offering canyoneering trips from Guatapé.

This is a full-day activity and very affordable. I've linked it below.

Book: Full-day canyoneering trip (from Guatapé)

22. Grab a Beer at the Floating Bar

For a more relaxed day, head to the floating bar which sits right in front of the town at Guatapé Lake. This is a great place to spend an afternoon and enjoy a cold beer while taking in the view.

There are actually a couple of these, and you'll see them located just around the corner from the main square and boardwalk.

23. Guatapé ATV Tour (Quad Bike)

If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you'll know all my destination guides have a heavy focus on the adventure!

So, if you're up for a fun and active day out, consider joining an ATV (quad bike) tour in the surrounding countryside.

Below I've linked to the best ATV tour in Guatapé. This is a popular activity. So, make sure to book in advance and check availability before you arrive.

Book: Countryside ATV Tour (Quad Bikes)

24. Eat Trucha Frita

If you like fish, then you're in for a treat as Guatapé is famous for its trucha frita! This dish is made with fried trout (fresh from the lake) and served with rice, beans, avocado, and plantains.

You'll find this dish on the menu of most authentic Colombian restaurants in Guatapé.

25. Walk The Road to La Piedra del Peñol

Prefer to explore the area on foot or want to warm up your legs before the big stair climb to the top of El Peñol?

Instead of paying a Tuk Tuk, you can walk the 2.7-mile road to the rock. Along the way, you'll cross a scenic suspension bridge and pass small townships on the outskirts showcasing more unique zócalos.

Just before the bridge on the way to the giant rock, you'll pas Parque Comfama Guatapé. This is a small water park that is popular with kids.

26. Walk the Malecon (Waterfront Strip)

The Malecon is Guatapé's boardwalk that runs along the edge of Guatapé Lake. Apparently this is a relatively new addition to the area and has now moved many of the stalls from the main plaza to the waterfront.

The Malecon is a great place to go for a jog or just take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the fresh air. Additionally, you'll find a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and street food vendors along this strip.

27. Discover Unique Zócalo Art

As mentioned earlier, this cute town is famous for its traditional Zócalo art.

Zócalos are the traditional street art of Guatapé and can be found all over town. These colorful mosaics depict scenes from local life and culture.

You'll also discover that they are also used to describe the purpose of the building. For example, you'll find motorbike art in bright colors at the mechanic!

We were fortunate enough to watch a local artist create a brand new mosaic right near the main square!

28. Visit the Guatapé Markets on Sunday

Some of the markets at Guatapé are open every day. However, if you want to see them in full force, then one of the best days to visit is on a Sunday.

This is the perfect opportunity to buy some souvenirs and support local artists and artisans. You'll find a mix of stalls and gift shops selling clothes, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, and delicious street food.

29. Try Merengon (Meringue Desert with Strawberries & Ice Cream)

This dessert is a Guatapé specialty and it's insanely delicious!

It's made with meringue, whipped cream, strawberries, and vanilla ice cream. There's one hole-in-the-wall style spot in particular called Merengon Guatape, and you'll find it on Calle 31 right around the corner from Parque Principal de Guatapé.

30. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen

Located in the town center on the main square of Guatapé Colombia (Parque Principal de Guatapé) is a beautiful white and red-trimmed church called Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Our Lady Carmen Church).

The interior of the church is also quite stunning. The doors are wide-open all day to come in and take a look.

31. Eat a Delicious Breakfast in the Main Square

One of the best things to do in Guatapé is to wake up early and have breakfast at one of the cafes in the town square.

You'll find a good selection of local and international breakfast options available. We ate at the cafe right on the corner of Calle 30 and Carrera 30 a few times and were big fans! In my opinion, they had amazing coffee and the most delicious Buñuelos (fried cheese balls).

The Main Square (Parque Principal) also has a beautiful fountain and there is also a fresh fruit and vegetable market located on the southern edge of the square.

32. SUP, Kayak, or Sail Around Guatapé Lake

Another great activity to do when visiting Guatapé is to explore the lake by SUP (stand-up paddleboard), kayak, or sailboat.

There are a few companies that offer rentals and tours. Simply head down to the waterfront and you'll have a wide selection.

Book: Sailing experience on the lake

34. Photograph The Pueblo From the Far Side of the Lake

Looking for another great view point of the colorful town of Guatapé with the giant rock in the background?

Head over to the other side of Laguna Guatapé! This is within walking distance, so you don't need a motorbike for this one. We found it was right next to Apartamento Cada De Campo on Google Maps.

Since this spot is technically part of the marina, it isn't really the most beautiful place. However, the view of the town is great!

35. Go Hiking

If you're visiting Guatapé for the adventure, you'll want to go check out some of the hikes! I've mentioned a few already, including the short walks to El Peñol, La Cazuela waterfall, and the viewpoint above town.

However, if you want more trails, check out Pisto Reto Quinbaya and Camino del Sinsonte as well.

35. El Cristalino Waterfall

Another epic waterfall near Guatapé is El Cristalino.

This waterfall is located about a 30 minute drive from town. It's not as popular as some of the other spots, so it's perfect for those who are looking for a more secluded experience. However, keep in mind you'll need to be prepared for a winding trail.

For this reason, it's best to book this with a local guide, who will show you the way.

Book: El Cristalino Waterfall Tour (From Guatapé)

36. Eat at Namaste Vegan Restaurant

Over the full 3 months of our Colombia trip, we found that Namaste Vegan had the absolute best vegetarian and vegan food in the country.

They offer a wide variety of both cooked and raw vegan dishes. We tried the vegan hamburger and their vegan empanadas were absolutely huge!

This restaurant also has some of the best homemade salsas in Pueblo and you can have as much as you want without extra cost.

Highly recommend!

37. Go Caving

As if By now, you'll have realized that the other guides covering things to do in Guatapé, Colombia have missed just how much adventure potential this region has!

To wrap up this travel guide, there's another shock activity, you can even go caving! There is one company that runs caving tours, and I've linked to their booking site below.

Book: Caving tour (from Guatapé)

What About the Pablo Escobar Paintball Tour?

Paintballing in Pablo Escobar's old mansion was once one of the most popular activities in Guatapé. However, as you'll have found out if you visited Medellín's Comuna 13, Paisas really don't like talking about the man, or glorifying tourism surrounding his name.

As a result, the Colombian government has actually shut down all tourism activities surrounding his previous mansions.

How Long to Spend in Guatapé?

As you'll see by now, there are so many fun things to do in Guatapé!

While Guatapé is a great place for a day trip from Medellín if you want to experience everything the town and surrounding area has to offer, I recommend spending at least one night, or even better, two nights.

We ended up staying here for a week and were flat out! In fact, you could easily stay here for several weeks, especially if you want to take some time to relax and really soak in those beautiful views.

Where to Stay - The best Guatapé Hotels

Prefer to stay a night or two in this colorful little town? Below are my three best picks the best Guatapé hotels and hostels.

• Casa Pastora - Budget pick (where I stayed). An awesome homestay/co-work hotel that is very close to town, offers private rooms, and costs less than $15 per night!
• Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol - Amazing 4-star hotel offering views over the lake and the giant rock landmark
• Hotel Los Recuerdos - Huge resort-style hotel with huge open-glass windows overlooking the lake and the rock.

View More on Booking.com

FAQs About Travel in Guatapé, Colombia

More South America Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope this ultimate guide to visiting Guatapé, Colombia has convinced you to explore more in this beautiful town and given you some travel inspiration for what to do on your visit.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides for some more recommendations and travel inspiration! If you're wondering where in Colombia to travel to next, make sure to check out Minca!

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia - Everything You Need to Know
• Comuna 13 Tour in Medellín - Everything you Need to Know (2022)
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Minca has long been Colombia’s sleepy backpacker town, known worldwide for its incredible hikes, beautiful fincas and coffee plantations, beautiful jungle waterfalls, and all-around relaxing vibes.

It truly is one of the best places to visit in Colombia, especially if you’re a fan of outdoor attractions and nature!

After spending two weeks exploring this incredible region, I’ve formulated this comprehensive travel guide featuring 21 amazing things to do in Minca, Colombia!

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find a section dedicated to answering all your travel questions, with tips for where to stay, what to bring, how to get around, and more!

First, Where is Minca?

The small mountain town of Minca is located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in the Magdalena region of Northern Colombia. This is a beautiful mountain area and is actually the highest coastal range in the world!

In saying that, Minca is easily accessible from the popular northern cities and tourist hubs including Cartagena, Santa Marta, Palomino, and Tayrona National Park.

There is only one road leading to Minca, appropriately called Via a Minca or "Santa Marta a Minca". This is sealed and winds gently up the densely forested mountain slopes to an altitude of approximately 600 meters (1970 feet) above sea level.

How to Get to Minca Colombia

The only way to get to Minca is to first make your way to Santa Marta in the north of Colombia. This is a scenic and historic coastal city that was once a bustling tourist destination but has unfortunately lost its charm of late due to a declining reputation.

While many people seem to still enjoy some beach time here, I'd suggest heading straight to Minca instead. To get here, there are two main options.

Option 1: Colectivo or "Shared Bus" from Santa Marta Square to Minca

This is the cheapest way to get to Minca and is popular with backpackers and budget travelers.

To take this option, head down to the main square in Santa Marta (Mercado Publico in Centro). On the corner of Carrera 9 and Calle 11, you'll see a small white public bus with the name "Minca" usually inscribed on the windshield.

This shuttle service costs 9,000 Colombian pesos per person and takes roughly 45 minutes. However, since this is shared transport, you'll need to wait until it fills up before you depart.

Keep in mind the last shuttle bus leaves at 5:00 PM and the van drops you near the center of town. If you're staying on the mountain slopes, you'll need to take a moto-taxi (available near the colectivo stop).

Option 2: Taxi From Santa Marta to Minca

If you'd rather get private transport, then any taxi driver in Santa Marta or Rodadero will take you to Minca. The "official" going rate is 60,000 pesos for the trip. In saying that, you can often negotiate down to 40,000, depending on the day.

Getting a taxi is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to this quiet mountain town, and is a great option if you are in a large group.

Again, since the roads leading to the many beautiful fincas and mountain hotels are unsealed and steep, the taxi will only take you to the center of Minca. From here, you can walk or take a motorbike-taxi to your accommodation.

Update: There is now a private transport option you can book on Viator for 65,000 as well.

What About From Cartagena to Minca?

Visiting Cartagena and want to take the trip to Minca? The most convenient way to get here is to take the comfortable coach bus to Santa Marta bus station (Terminal de Transportes de Santa Marta).

From here, it's best to just take a taxi to Minca, since you'd have to pay roughly 15,000 to get to Market Square (for the shuttle) anyway.

To book buses in Colombia, I recommend using BusBud, which is the most convenient website.

What to do in Minca, Colombia- 21 Fun Things Not to Miss

Okay, with the basic logistics out of the way, let's dive into this comprehensive Minca travel guide, starting with the 21 best things to do and see.

1. Stay at a Coffee & Cacao Plantation

The mountainous region of the lower Sierra Nevada is perfect for producing coffee and cacao. As a result, you'll find many rustic "fincas" (a country estate or ranch), producing world-renowned produce.

If you're looking for a unique accommodation experience, then one of the coolest things to do in Minca is to stay at one of these plantations. We stayed at Finca San Rafael, which I couldn't recommend enough. This was one of my favorite places I stayed in all of Colombia! It's nestled on the mountain slopes just above town and has lush gardens and even a pool.

Whichever farm or plantation you stay at, most will offer coffee tours to visitors and their guests.

2. Pozo Azul

Pozo Azul is one of the most popular natural attractions in Minca. It's a set of scenic jungle waterfalls offering one of the best places to swim and cool down near Minca town.

There are two large natural swimming pools here, as well as a small cliff jump! You'll find it along the long winding mountain road leading up to town. And, to get here, simply hike from the center of Minca, or pay a moto-taxi driver to take you here.

Keep in mind that this is a very popular place, especially with Colombians who come here on a day trip from Santa Marta. My advice is to visit early (or at lunchtime) and avoid public holidays and weekends if you can.

Tip: Minca is an adventure playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers.

3. Bird watching

Did you know there are several books published about the amazing biodiversity and birdlife in Minca? Due to the cooler climate and the dense jungle of the Sierra Nevada, this small village is one of the world's best bird-watching areas!

If you're a nature lover, birder, photographer, or simply love wildlife and sustainable tourism, I highly recommend going on the famous bird-watching tour.

This is recommended in most travel guides to Minca and for good reason. The guide is a professional and has been searching for birds for most of his life. This trip will take you to some of the best birdwatching areas in town, including the El Dorado Reserve.

Book: Top-Rated Bird Watching Tour (from Minca)

4. Hike to Ciudad Perdida (Lost City Trek)

Okay, now for arguably the most unique and culturally significant attraction in Minca– the Ciudad Perdida, or Lost City Trek (also known as Teyuna and Buritaca 200).

This 4 or 5 day hiking journey leads adventurers deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Lost City, an ancient archeological site that is believed to have been founded in 800 CE (hundreds of years before Machu Picchu).

Along the way, you'll pass scenic valleys and indigenous communities of the Wiwa. The guides are all very professional and this trip is well-established for tourists.

A guide is compulsory for this hike, and there are only a select few tour operators running hiking trips. Below I've linked to one of the best trips, which you can book directly with GetYourGuide so that you get free cancellation (not an option when dealing with some of the other operators).

More Info: Lost City Trek

5. Marinka Waterfalls

While everybody visits Pozo Azul, my personal favorite set of freshwater waterfalls in Minca are the Marinka Waterfalls, or Las Cascadas de Marinka, as they're called in Spanish.

Visitors will find this epic double-tiered waterfall just a short distance from Minca village, and it makes for the perfect spot to relax and swim. While Minca does enjoy generally cooler temperatures than on the coast, the water is still perfectly refreshing, especially after the 1-hour hike from this small town.

Book: Epic Waterfall Rappelling Activity (from Minca)

6. Stay at Sierra Minca Hostel

Okay, I'm just going to put it out there. Minca has some of the best hostels in the world. No, that's not an exaggeration.

This region features a number of beautiful hostels that have received South American and global accommodation awards.

And, one of the absolute best is called Sierra Minca. The truth is, you'll find this one recommended in almost every travel guide to Minca! This awesome mountain hostel is located on the jungle ridges just above the town and is famous for its zip-line and massive giant hammock.

Unfortunately, I couldn't get a stay here since it was booked out for weeks! So, if you've still got time, I highly recommend booking online in advance.

Update: Unfortunately the famous Casa Elemento hostel, which you'll see mentioned in most travel guides, is no longer running. However, between Sierra Minca, Casa Loma Hostel, and Casa Viejas, you honestly have more than enough choice for amazing hostels!

7. Hike to Cerro Kennedy

Looking for a chance to spot Colombia's tallest mountains? The Sierra Nevada mountains are huge. In fact, this is the highest coastal mountain range in the world!

If you're looking for the best view of these beautiful snow capped mountains, then I highly recommend a trip up to Cerro Kennedy . This is usually done on an overnight trip and is one of my absolute favorite highlights from my time visiting Minca.

From this viewpoint at roughly 3100 meters above sea level, you can get a chance to see Pico Cristòbal Colòn and Pico Simòn Boliva, the two tallest mountains in Colombia, as well as the famous sea of clouds (cloud forest).

The best way to get here is to take a motorbike taxi halfway up the mountain and then hike to a small hostel called "Moncho's". Read my guide (link above) for a full itinerary.

Tip: Visit in the early morning during the sunrise for the best chance of a clear mountain view.

8. Oído del Mundo (Ear of the World)

As you can probably tell by now, there are many awesome waterfalls in Minca! If you're looking for a more relaxed natural swimming hole without the crowds, make sure to check out the two small waterfalls at Oído del Mundo, (Ear of the World).

You'll find this just off the main road on the way to Marinka Waterfall. Since its nowhere near as famous as some of the other popular spots, this is the perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy the serene forest surrounds.

9. Las Piedras

Up for yet another awesome natural swimming spot near Minca? Make your way to Las Piedras (the stones). In reality, this is just a nice place along the Costeño River (one of the small mountain streams running through Minca). It's famous because of its large stones and deep section that is perfect for swimming.

You often won't find many tourists here, which again, is great if you just want to relax and have a place in nature to yourself.

To get to Las Piedras in Minca, simply head down to "Carrera 1a" on Google Maps, and you'll find access to the river.

The exact GPS coordinates for Las Piedras is: 11°08'26.5"N 74°07'22.4"W

10. Sunset at 360 Mirador

If you're wondering about what to do in Minca and love hiking, you're in for a treat! One of my favorite hikes in the surrounding area is the 360 Mirador, an awesome viewpoint accessible on a steep hike directly from town.

The 360 Mirador hike climbs a steep hill past "Trekkers Glamping" to a viewpoint vista offering uninterrupted views of the Minca, Santa Marta, the Caribbean Sea, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and even parts of Tayrona National Park.

We climbed to this viewpoint in the late afternoon and stayed here and waited for the sunset– highly recommend!

11. Los Pinos Viewpoint Hike

If you ask in town, the most popular viewpoint hike in Minca is the Los Pinos peak. This is a high section located near the famous Sierra Minca hostel and gives hikers the opportunity to experience incredible views over Minca and all the way down to Santa Marta on the coast.

Los Pinos is usually included on a long hiking day trip from town, with the option to form a long loop passing the Marinka Waterfalls and Pozo Azul on the same day.

12. Amazing International Food On Carrera 5A

Colombian food is amazing. But, if you're feeling like a bit of a change-up, I highly recommend checking out the international options on Carrera 5a (the same street as the big white church).

We tried a bunch of different restaurants during our time in this small mountain village. Some of my favorites include:

• Casa Aney - local restaurant with amazing Israeli & Mediterranean food
• Arabesca - delicious Syrian and Arabic cuisine
• Sativa - great Mexican food

The international food in Minca is a little more expensive than if you were to eat Colombian street food like empanadas or arepas. However, you can easily get by with under $8 USD per meal.

14. Minca Church (Iglesia Minka)

No, you won't find a giant cathedral in Minca. Instead, there's a small little white church located on the main street (Carrera 5a).

This tiny little church is a perfect fit for Minca. It's quaint, a little weathered, and very picturesque. There's a quiet square just outside the church which backs onto lush forest. Take a stroll, stop by the church, then go try one of the amazing local restaurants mentioned above!

15. Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro

Minca is a nature lover's paradise! Thankfully, the natural beauty and the significance of Minca's biodiversity is recognized, resulting in several Nature Reserves formed in the area.

One of my favorites is the Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro, which you'll find just above the Marinka Waterfalls.

If you're planning on taking the hike up to Los Pinos from Marinka Falls, then you'll pass through this forest. However, this reserve is worth visiting on its own accord, especially if you want to try to spot some rare birds.

We spotted three toucans in this section of the forest! There are also cool streams running down from the mountain slopes which provide a great place to swim as well.

16. Eat Pan de Chocolate & Fresh ARTISANAL BREAD

What? A quality bakery in Minca? Yes! Besides Palomino, the Minca panadería (bakery), called La Miga Panadería makes some of the best fresh bread in all of Colombia!

This one's for all the Europeans out there. If you're missing the taste of fresh artisanal bread, make sure you stop by this cafe, located again, on Carrera 5a just opposite the Israeli restaurant. The sourdough and Pan de Chocolate (chocolate bread) is delicious, especially after a long hike!

17. Cacao & Coffee Tours At La Victoria Coffee Farm

One of the most popular things to do in Minca is to embark on coffee tours at one of the many plantations and cocoa farms. If you're not staying at a coffee plantation (number 1), then one of the best organic coffee tours is run by La Victoria.

These tours are a must if you are a lover of coffee. It's really interesting to learn about how organic coffee is produced, following the entire process from seed to cup. If you're looking to stock up on some fresh Colombian produce, you can also purchase cocoa and coffee beans from these plantations.

Alternatively, you can check out the tours by Finca San Rafael and Finca La Candelaria as well (both great options).

Book in advance: La Victoria Coffee Tour (from Minca or included transport from Santa Marta).

18. Cascada Escondida

Visiting Minca during the busy period? Want to escape the crowds? Okay, I've got a secret waterfall for you.

This waterfall is called Cascada Escondida (the Hidden Waterfall). It's located just 900 meters from Pozo Azul and (almost) nobody knows about this. In fact, you're almost guaranteed to have this one to yourself. So, there's good reason to go!

Travelers will discover this waterfall by walking down the steep steps adjacent to "Panaderia Alto de la Montana". This one is unsigned, but we asked a very friendly and smiley old man sitting next to the trail and he pointed us in the right direction. Apparently, it's best to ask for permission from the shop, but he said he was able to give us permission as well.

From here, continue down the steep dirt track for 5 minutes, cross the river, turn left, and you'll arrive at the waterfall. Unfortunately, there is now a barbed-wire fence blocking access to the top tier. However, you can still get a shower underneath the bottom tier and swim in the gentle river next ot the falls.

Tip: The waterfall is pinned as "Cascada perdida (Valhalla)" on Google Maps. However, the old man assured us that the true name is "Cascada Escondida".

19. Spot Unique Wildlife

Did you know that UNESCO recognizes the mountainous region surrounding Minca as a world heritage site? This is due to its rich biodiversity and strong Tayrona settlement history.

Nature lovers, you'll want to keep your eyes peeled during your hikes! Besides rare birds, you'll also find a wide range of monkeys here, including the Colombian howler monkey, whosex roars you can often hear echoing through the valley.

20. Chill Out on a Giant Hammock

Okay, have you really been to Minca if you haven't got that iconic net hammock pic?

Seriously though, I love these awesome hammocks. They're always suspended high above the forest laying down in them is one of the best ways to relax and enjoy the views.

You'll find giant hammocks at plenty of hostels and restaurants arround Minca. The most notable is the one at Sierra Minca, but you'll also find them at the Marinka Waterfalls too.

21. Cheap Cocktails at the Lazy Cat

Looking for a way to wrap up your days of adventure in Minca, Colombia? What better way than by sharing some (unbelievably cheap) cocktails with friends?

If you're in the mood for a drink, head down to the Lazy Cat on Carrera 5a. The Lazy Cat is a popular spot which always has a great vibe going. This is especially the case during happy hour, where you can score two mojitos for 15,000 Colombian pesos (under $4 USD).

Where to Stay in Minca

Minca Colombia Travel Guide

I hope this useful list of activities and ideas for what to do in Minca has inspired your adventures beyond just a few days of relaxing.

While you're here, continue on for a complete travel guide to Minca. Here, I'll answer all your travel questions and give you some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Best Bookable Tours & Experiences in Minca

Looking for a quick way to book in all the best activities and adventures in Minca? Below are my top three that you can easily book online in advance.

• Ciudad Perdida Trek - Perhaps the most fulfilling trekking experience in Colombia. Trek to "The Lost City" in the Sierra Nevada, an archeaological site built some 650 years before even Machu Picchu!
• Birdwatching Tour - Minca is world-famous for its wildlife, especially its birds. Let a local show you the best spots to photograph and spot beautiful tropical birds like toucans and hummingbirds.
• Minca Full Day Tour - The best-rated tour in town which covers all the highlights in one day. Includes waterfalls and cacao plantation tours.

Tip: Minca is also a popular destination for mountain biking and taking yoga classes!

Minca Packing List - What to Bring

Due to the unique climate and generally cooler temperatures, you'll want to consider packing the following.

• Bug repellent - seriously, this is crucial, the sand flies are ruthless in Minca. I've stopped using deet and now swear by the natural alternative from Sallye Ander
• Bug cream - something to treat the inevitable bites. Again, the Sallye Ander cream helps reduce itching.
• Hat and sunscreen - many of the hiking trails are shaded, but you will be exposed to the sun a lot in Minca. I'm Aussie so I might be biased, but Blue Lizard makes the best natural sunscreen on earth.
• Grayl water purifier - I swear by this water purifying bottle. I've used it all over the world (including tap water in India), and saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfill in the process.
• Hiking shoes and clothes - make sure to pack the outdoor clothes!
• A lightweight rain jacket - while the coast around Santa Marta is dry, the Sierra Nevada mountains around Minca get a lot of rain.
• Camera or GoPro - this mountain village is beautiful and totally safe to have your camera out! Read my guide to camera gear for travel for suggestions.
• Warm clothes - the cooler climate in Minca can result in some chilly nights, especially if you head further into the mountains to Cerro Kennedy.
• Travel quick-dry towel - a must have travel essential
• Imodium - trust me, you might want to bring some
• Head lamp or flashlight - useful when returning from sunset hikes or when the power goes out.

Related:

Why You Need To Visit San Andres Island (Colombia)

How to Get Around in Minca Colombia

It's good to know that Minca is quite a small village. However, many of the places of interest are located on the steep mountain slopes on the outskirts of town. Honestly, you can walk to every attraction mentioned in this travel guide. However, if you're short on time or don't want to walk, you can also get a moto-taxi almost anywhere.

Most of the roads are far too steep and bumpy for regular cars.

You'll find the motorbike taxi drivers (MotoMink) just beside the yellow bridge near the colectivo stop in the town of Minca. Prices are very fair and these guys are some of the best motorbike riders I've ever seen!

Minca Attractions Map

Here's a useful map of most of the attractions and highlights in Minca, Colombia.

I found this on a sign next to the MotoMink guys, and the times indicate the walking duration (blue), and the time on a motorbike (green) from the center of town.

More Minca Travel Tips

Before you head out on your adventures to this incredible Colombian travel destination, here are some last tips that will prove useful!

• Bring Mosquito and bug repellant - I've mentioned this but it's important. If you are already in Colombia, it's best to stock up before you get to Minca since prices for bug spray is much steeper (it's a valuable commodity).
• Cash is king - there are no ATMs or cajeros in Minca. While some restaurants and upper-class hotels accept card payments, cash is the best option. Make sure to take plenty out in Santa Marta before you arrive.
• Plan for the weather - due to the altitude and dense forest, the climate is wetter and cooler.
• Avoid the main attractions on weekends and public holidays - Minca is quickly becoming a top tourist destination in Colombia. As a result, many of the main attractions can become very busy during peak periods.
• Plan at least a few nights here - seriously, you'll want more than a day or two.
• Bring a backpack - suitcases are not a good idea on these bumpy, rocky roads!
• Buy handmade gifts and souvenirs - there are plenty of stalls and shops where you can stock up on souvenirs, trinkets, and hand-made gifts.
• Book accommodation early - I like to keep things open, but by not booking in advance, I was unable to secure a room at Sierra Minca and had to visit on a day trip in stead.

Visiting Minca Colombia: FAQs

Where to Go After Minca Santa Marta: Colombia Travel Guides

So, that's a wrap for this comprehensive travel guide to Minca, covering all the attractions and unmissable things to do!

But the question is, where to next? Definitely don't miss Tayrona National Park and the backpacker town of Palomino. Otherwise, while you're already on my blog, check out some of my other travel guides to Colombia below.

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia - 2023 Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 4 Awesome Minca Waterfalls - Complete Guide
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Palomino is a quiet, laid-back seaside village located just a short hop from Santa Marta on Colombia’s northern coast.

From quaint cafes down dusty roads to rustic jungle huts on the shores of the Caribbean, this town has all the ingredients necessary to form a bustling tourist hub. However, the great thing is that if you visit now, you’ll get to experience an authentic beach town before the boom. Think Bali’s Canguu in the 1980s!

While today, this tiny little village beside Tayrona National Park is becoming more and more popular with travelers and backpackers, its tourism scene is still very much in its infancy.

So, if you're looking for some travel inspiration, or to find out what the best things to do in Palomino Colombia are, then you've come to the right place.

After personally spending quite a bit of time here, I've compiled this comprehensive travel guide, outlining the best options to get here, what to expect, what to do and see, and some useful travel tips to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Colombia.

Where is Palomino Colombia?

Palomino is located within the department of La Guajira on the shores of Colombia's Caribbean Sea. This small town is wedged between two rivers, namely the Palomino River and the San Salvador River.

The closest main city is Santa Marta, which is approximately 80 kilometers away (50 miles). Visiting Palomino is a popular option for those following Colombia's backpacker trail after exploring Tayrona National Park and the mountain village of Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Tip: Colombia is an adventure traveler's playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers. For longer backpacking trips, check out the nomad insurance by SafetyWing.

How to Get to Palomino in La Guajira

Below I'll summarize the best ways to get Palomino from popular nearby regions in Colombia.

From Santa Marta

The easiest way to get to Palomino is by taking the public bus from the nearby city of Santa Marta. In fact, if you're traveling from other regions, it makes sense to simply head here first. There is an airport here called "Simón Bolívar International Airport", which connects to many other major cities in Colombia.

These green buses leave regularly from the market area (Mercado Público de Santa Marta) and are the same ones departing for Tayrona (which is on the way). The price for this bus is currently 12,000 Colombian Pesos per person and the journey takes roughly two hours.

From Minca

For those in Minca, the best option is to simply take the colectivo (shared van) from the center of town. This costs 9,000 pesos and the journey takes roughly 45 minutes to reach the Santa Marta market area. You'll be dropped just a few feet from the bus stop heading to Palomino.

Just like Minca, there are no ATMs in Palomino yet, so it's best to get some cash out at the nearby ATM (cajero automático) located inside the Olympica supermarket.

From Cartagena

For those coming from Cartagena, take a direct bus to Palomino that takes between 6-7 hours. These are more expensive, cross-country coaches that are really quite comfortable (some of the best in South America in my experience).

The best bus company is called Expresso Brasilia, but it's best to book in advance. I use Busbud in Colombia because it's the same price as paying at the bus stations and it's super convenient.

If you're taking a bus to Santa Marta instead, then simply follow the directions above.

Tip: All of these bus options will drop you on the main highway just outside of the main tourist street of Palomino. From here you can simply walk to your hotel or hostel.

Things to do in Palomino Colombia

Without further ado, let's dive into this guide to help you plan what to do in Palomino!

1. Go Tubing on the Palomino River

By far, the most popular activity in Palomino is going tubing down the Palomino River. In fact, it seems you'll find stacks of old inflated tires at every second building in town. And, the phrase "have you gone tubing yet" must be the most uttered phrase in the dusty open bars and cafes.

Okay, what is tubing? – you might ask. If you've never been, put simply, it's an outdoor activity where you float calmly down a jungle river in large, inflated inner tubes.

While this is far from the most adventurous thing to do, it's still a really fun activity and a great way to cool off and relax.

You can book this anywhere in town, and the set price is 40,000 Colombian pesos per person. The starting point varies but is usually somewhere upstream, where you'll ride a bike or get transport on the back of a pickup truck or motorbike.

2. See Snow Capped Mountains From the Beach

What really makes this region unique is that you can actually spot snow-covered mountain peaks from the beach!

What you're seeing is the Sierra Nevada mountains, which is the tallest coastal mountain range in the world. The highest peak, Pico Cristóbal Colón (Gonawindua), reaches a whopping 5,775 meters (18880 feet) above sea level.

This really blew me away the first time I saw it, especially seeing it from the humid shores of the Caribbean!

Tip: The Sierra Nevada range is usually covered in clouds during the day. The best time to see a clear view of the mountains is in the early morning.

Best View of the Sierra Nevada: Cerro Kennedy Hike (from Minca)

3. Stay at Dreamer Hostel

Looking for the best places to stay in town? You're not alone. In fact, many people visit Palomino simply because it has some of the best hostels in the country!

One of the top picks is staying at Dreamer Hostel, which is an experience in itself.

Here, you'll discover an excellent vibe attracting like-minded travelers from all over the world.! There's also an awesome outdoor swimming pool where you can chill out or even play pool volleyball!

There are a few Dreamer Hostels in Colombia, and they're always rated as some of the best in each travel destination! I would highly recommend.

4. Catch a Famous Palomino Sunrise or Sunset

Palomino is known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets. For some reason, the sky always seems to put on a show here!

Head down to the playa Make sure to catch at least one while you're in town. We recommend heading to the beach early in the morning or late in the evening to watch the show.

5. Take a Trip to See the Flamingos

If you wander the streets of Palomino, you'll undoubtedly see tour signs for the "flamenco" attraction.

While there really isn't much information about this online, heading out on a day trip to the "Santuario de Fauna y Flora Los Flamencos" is actually one of the funnest experiences from Palomino, Colombia– especially if you're interested in unique wildlife.

This reserve is located approximately one hour away near the town of Camarones and offers a special opportunity to spot flocks of wild flamingos.

The tour that I took involved a short sail on a traditional boat with a local guide. We sailed out into the reserve and were able to get quite close to a huge flock!

My guide's name was Jose Rosado, and he is a very skilled sailor and wildlife spotter. Contact him on Whatsapp at +57 313 701 6088 to book your tour.

Read More: Where to See Wild Flamingos in Colombia

6. Palomino Beach (Playa Palomino)

Perhaps the biggest attraction in this seaside village is Palomino Beach or Playa Palomino. This windswept stretch of palm tree-lined sand is beautiful, and a great place to spend your day.

While some sources mention you can't swim here, you certainly can! However, just like many of the beaches in nearby Tayrona National Park, you can expect strong currents and large waves here. So, you'll definitely need to be a confident swimmer.

7. Eat Delicious International Food on the Main Road

I bet you wouldn't expect to find delicious wood-fired pizza or Instanbul-quality shwarma in a tiny Colombian village!

However, due to the largely foreign tourist scene, Palomino offers some excellent international cuisine options that are actually some of the best I've had in Colombia. Most of these restaurants are located on the main tourist road leading to the beach of Palomino (Carerra 6a).

Among the best restaurants in Palomino are:

• Barba Beach Arabic
• Prima Luna - the best pizza I've had in Colombia!
• Casa Cocotte

Tip: If you haven't already, make sure to try a Coco de Limondae in Colombia! Prima Luna makes one of the best ones I had after months of backpacking through this amazing South American country.

8. Unwind at One of the Little Beach Bars

If you've been busy hiking in Minca or beach hopping in Tayrona, then Palomino is a great place to relax and simply unwind.

The main street in Palomino is full of small bamboo bars leading all the way to the beach. Considering this village is still somewhat of a hidden gem (just), prices here are very affordable.

Most bars run a happy hour for most of the night, and you can pick up 2, or even 3 cocktails for as little as 15,000 COP!

9. Try Kite Surfing

Palomino is a great place to try kite surfing. The town is located in a windy area, making it perfect for the sport! While it's not among the most popular things to do in Palomino, there is one school that offers lessons.

You'll find it directly opposite the Barba Beach Arabic restaurant on the main strip leading to the beach!

10. Work Out at the Jungle Gym

Are all those cocktails and wood-fired pizzas getting to you? Looking for a place to work out in Palomino?

Make sure to check out what I call the "Jungle Gym". This is a bamboo-constructed gym located just on the outskirts of town. While you won't find luxury treadmills or spin bikes here, it's got everything you need to get a great workout.

The exact address is: Cl 1c ## 13-20, Palomino, Dibulla, La Guajira.

Entry only costs 8,000 so there's no excuse not to check out this awesome gym!

11. Eat Fresh Bread from the French Bakery

Pizza, cocktails, now a French patisserie? No, this isn't a food blog, but maybe this town just hit home a little after a few months of eating mostly Colombian food. I promise, this is the last food item in this Palomino travel guide, but I feel it has to be mentioned!

There is one famous bakery called the "Bikini French Bakery Bar", which again, is just down Carerra 6a.

However, there is also another "hidden gem" bakery that I think deserves a mention too. While I couldn't even find the name, it's on the corner of Carerra 6a and the side street leading to Palomino Hostel (just opposite Barber offo on Google Maps).

These guys make the best cinnamon scrolls in Colombia and do a lot for the local street dog population!

12. Walk to Coco Beach

If you're visiting in the high season between December and February, then Palomino beach might be a little busy, especially on calm, sunny days.

If you're looking for a place to relax without any crowds, take the short walk over to Coco Beach (Playa Los Cocos). This is a small stretch of sand on the other side of the mouth of the Palomino River. Yes, you'll need to walk across the river mouth to get here, so it's best to do it on a calm day.

13. Learn to Surf

While Palomino beach doesn't have the best surf break in the Caribbean, you'll still find a few board rentals and "learn to surf" schools. As you can see from the photos, the conditions were pretty rough during the few weeks I stayed in Palomino.

However, there were some days when although choppy, the conditions allowed for a decent session on the board!

If you want to learn to surf, head down to the beach and you'll find some local kids offering lessons and rentals.

14. Visit Tayrona National Park

If you haven't already, visiting Tayrona National Park is one of the must-do highlights in this part of Colombia. Parque Tayrona is one of the most biodiverse natural parks in the country and is home to a wide range of protected wildlife species including jaguars and the critically endangered cotton-top tamarin.

If beaches are more your thing, Tayrona also has some of the best in Colombia. In fact, hoards of tourists flock here precisely for this reason.

Luckily, it's really easy to visit this park directly from Palomino. You can take the green public transport bus for 8,000 Colombian pesos directly to the Zaino entrance (main entrance to the park).

While it's possible to visit Tayrona on a day trip from Palomino, I highly recommend spending at least a night here.

Tip: Add in a trip to Tayrona between your Santa Marta and Palomino itinerary. Also, try to avoid public holidays and weekends if you can since is the most popular time to visit.

15. Bonus: The Lost City Trek

Where to Stay in Palomino

Still planning your trip and looking for the best places to stay in Palomino? Below are my top three picks, which are some of the highest-rated as well.

• Tiki Hut Hostel - This eco-hostel offers awesome rooms built from natural fibers, right on the edge of the Colombian Caribbean. Tiki Hut is one of the top-rated hostels in all of Colombia!
• Dreamer Hostel - If you stayed at Dreamer in Santa Marta, you'll already know that this awesome hostel chain has some of the best vibes in every destination!
• Palomino Sunrise - Stay in a beautiful eco-hut right near the edge of the beach and adjacent to the Palomino River. This is another of Colombia's best-rated accommodations!

View on Booking.com

Related:

25 Awesome Things to do on San Andres Island (Colombia)

Best Time to Visit Palomino, Colombia

The best time to visit Palomino is from December to March. This is the dry season, so you'll have sunny days and little to no rain. However, it's also the busiest time of year, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or October-November). You'll still enjoy a great time, but there will be fewer crowds.

Palomino Travel Tips

Ready to visit Palomino Colombia? Here are a few more travel tips and important things to know.

• Electricity - blackouts are very frequent here (daily). However, when I first visited in March 2022, there was major electrical system work being conducted to improve the system
• 4G, LTE, and cell signal - surprisingly, the wifi at most of the hotels and hostels in Palomino is quite good. I also had consistently stable 4G LTE with Claro
• Bugs and sandflies - just like in Minca, the sandflies here are ruthless. These guys leave really itchy bites for days. Remember your bug spray!
• No ATMs - cash is king in Palomino. There are no ATMs here yet. So, remember to get all your cash out at Santa Marta before you head here. Otherwise, there is a Bancocolombia ATM in nearby Mingueo (20 minutes away).
• Rough seas - if you are not a confident swimmer, don't swim at the beach here. Seas can get rough and the currents are notoriously strong.
• Chill vibes - this place is still very much a hippy town. Relax, unwind, and settle into the groove.
• Safe - unlike Santa Marta and its notorious beach towns, Palomino is very safe. There is very little crime here.
• Supermarkets & food - there are no large supermarkets in Palomino. However, travelers will find a few tiendas selling basic produce around the town. The largest is on the main road and is called Tienda pompi.
• Buses are frequent - Buses run from Palomino to Santa Marta and by Tayrona National Park every 30 minutes or so.
• Dirt roads - All of the streets in the village are unsealed. As a result, expect a lot of dust. While cars drive down these roads, its best to just walk around town.

Palomino Packing List: Essential Things to Bring

Before you head out, here are some last-minute things you'll want to make sure you pack when traveling to Palomino!

• Bug repellent - as mentioned, this is crucial, and you'll pay a premium in town for it. I've stopped using deet and now swear by the natural alternative from Sallye Ander
• Bug cream - something to treat the inevitable bites. Again, the Sallye Ander cream helps reduce itching.
• Hat and sunscreen - I'm Aussie so I might be biased, but Blue Lizard makes the best natural sunscreen on earth.
• Grayl water purifier - No, you can't drink the tap water in Palomino. Except if you have this water purifying bottle. I've used it all over the world (including tap water in India), and saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfill in the process.
• Camera or GoPro - this seaside village is beautiful and totally safe to have your camera out! Read my guide to camera gear for travel for suggestions.
• Travel quick-dry towel - a must have travel essential
• Imodium - trust me, you might want to bring some
• Head lamp or flashlight - useful when the power goes out!

More Colombia Travel Guides

I hope you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide coving all the best things to do in Palomino, Colombia!

Where to next?

Planning your adventures around Colombia? I'm sure you'll find the below guides super useful. Otherwise, read my guide to Medellín and Guatapé as well!

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia - 2023 Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 4 Awesome Minca Waterfalls - Complete Guide
• Comuna 13 Tour in Medellín - Everything you Need to Know (2022)

The post 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

If you’re visiting Cartagena de Indias and looking for the absolute best day trip to the small coral islands of the Colombian Caribbean Coast, then look no further.

The Rosario Islands in Colombia are one of the top destinations for those seeking a true Caribbean paradise. Here, you’ll find crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, and coral reef-lined coastlines. Best of all, taking a day trip to the Corles Isla del Rosario from Cartagena city is very easy and actually quite affordable!

In this guide, I’ll give you a rundown of everything you need to know to visit this true Caribbean paradise!

First: The Best Rosario Islands Day Trip From Cartagena

Before I get into the guide, let me fill you in on the best Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena.

The trip I'm recommending (and the one that I took) is run by a local company and takes you to the beautiful Rosario Islands aboard the 50 ft catamaran called "Bona Vida"– link below.

I booked this trip because it is ranked as the best tour in the city, with over 300 5-star reviews! This is also one of the most cost-effective options. It's priced at under $50 which is really good value since it includes:

• Visit Isla Grande on the Rosario Islands
• Visit to Playa Blanca or Isla Baru
• Free snorkel equipment hire
• 7.5-hour excursion (full-day trip)
• Fast sailing/motor-sailing to the islands (more time at Rosario)
• Lunch
• Free drinks and snacks throughout
• Small group tour (not too many people)

Book Your Tour Now

Where Are the Colombian Rosario Islands?

The Colombian Rosario Islands are located approximately 22 miles (36 kilometers) southwest of Cartagena de Indias in the Caribbean Sea. There are a total of 28 islands in this group, which are located within the Corales del Rosario National Park (Rosario Islands National Park).

Slower boats take roughly 2-3 hours to get here. Fortunately, if you pick the boat trip aboard the luxury catamaran above, you'll get to Isla Grande (the largest island in the chain) in under 1.5 hours.

Notable Islands of Islas Del Rosario, Colombia

As mentioned there are a total of 28 islands within the Rosario Islands group. The largest is Isla Grande but below I've listed some more of the main islands that tourists tend to visit.

• Isla Marina
• Isla Gigi
• Isleta (Carolina Island)
• Isla Rosa
• Isleta del Pirata (Pirate Island)
• Bendita Beach

It's important to know that the very popular Playa Blanca and Isla Barú are protected within the Rosario Islands National Park, but they are not part of the main island chain since Isla Baru was technically a peninsula before the man-made canal was first dug in 1582.

More Options For Getting to the Rosario Islands

Below are a few more options for how to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

Hire a Private Boat

For travelers arriving in Cartagena in a large group, it's possible to book a private boat tour or even a private yacht to head out to the Rosario Islands.

The private speed boats available will actually work out cheaper if you split the cost between a group of 10. Furthermore, you'll get your own driver who can help you plan an island-hopping itinerary from the Coast of Cartagena.

This is a popular option for people who want to take a "booze cruise" and check out popular party spots like Cholón. If you want to splurge, you could also check out GetMyBoat to find options to book a larger private yacht.

Bonus: Resort Day-Pass Option

Don't have the budget or the time to spend a night in the luxury Rosario Island resorts? Luckily, it's also possible to book a "day pass" at many of the best ones. This includes your speed boat transfer to the resort and provides access to facilities like the bar, pool, hot tub, and more.

These are the Rosario Island day passes you can book online (with Viator).

• Isla del Sol Day Pass
• Bora Bora Beach Club
• Bendita Beach

Why Visit Islas Del Rosario?

The main reason why people visit Islas del Rosario is that these islands have the clearest water and the best white-sand beaches near the popular tourist city of Cartagena.

While many more people choose a trip to Playa Blanca instead, the Rosario Islands are much prettier and less crowded.

Also, not only will you find pristine beaches in this natural park, but it's also a fun place to travel to for water sports and scuba diving! You can also rent a jet ski for an hour or so if you book one of the Rosario Island day trips from Cartagena.

Tip: you might see the dolphin show advertised on some of the tour signs around Cartagena. However, I highly recommend you avoid this for animal welfare reasons.

Rosario Islands Day Trip From Cartagena: What to Expect

Okay, with all of the basic logistics out of the way, here is my Rosario Islands blog where I recap my experience on a day trip from Cartagena, Colombia.

Again, I booked this boat trip with Bona Vida, and I honestly couldn't recommend it enough!

Boarding the Catamaran in Cartagena Harbor

Most boat trips will depart from somewhere in Cartagena harbor. This particular tour leaves from a convenient location at the waterfront pier near Muelle de los Pegasos. Upon boarding, we were offered a welcome drink and then set sail for the Rosario Islands!

Bahia de Cartagenas (Cartagena Bay)

Before heading out to the open Caribbean, the catamaran sails through Cartagena Bay. This offers excellent views of the upper-class skylines of Bocagrande and Castillo Grande. Furthermore, we passed the cruise terminals where a huge ship was docking just as we sailed through!

Arriving at The Rosario Islands from Cartagena

After approximately 1.5 hours of steady motor sailing at top speed, we arrived at the Rosario Islands. Our captain tied up to a buoy in a shallow section in a protected area between Isla Grande and Isla Marina.

The water color here was a beautiful shade of translucent blue and we didn't hesitate to jump straight in! We spent just over 2 hours here snorkeling, swimming, and jumping off the yacht into the clear turquoise water.

Sailing to Playa Blanca

To break up the trip, our captain set sail for the popular beach of Playa Blanca. Of course, since this particular beach is very busy, we anchored just a few hundred meters away, which was the perfect place to enjoy lunch.

Lunch on board the Bona Vida consisted of fresh fish, rice, salads, and tropical fruits. Alternatively, there was a vegetable rice option for vegans and vegetarians.

After a hearty lunch, we spent more time lazing on the deck and enjoying the Caribbean sun. The stop near Playa Blanca also gave us lots of time to swim over to the nearby beach which was lined with tropical palm trees.

This was also another great place to do some more snorkeling, although the visibility was considerably better at the Rosario Islands.

Don't Miss:

San Andres Island, Colombia (A Must-Visit!)

Back to Cartagena

After an awesome day exploring the Rosario Islands of Colombia, we set sail back to Cartagena! The journey back was a little bumpy, but the 50-foot motor sailing catamaran cut through the waves with ease.

We were particularly glad that we chose this tour during this leg of the trip as we watched smaller speed boats smash up and down against the waves.

More Photos from the Rosario Islands, Colombia

More Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope you've found this short guide to visiting the Rosario Islands from Cartagena, Colombia useful!

I recently spent close to three months exploring Colombia and documenting my adventures on this blog. If you're looking for more adventure travel inspiration, make sure to check out some of my other blog posts below.

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia - 2023 Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post Rosario Islands Colombia – Plan an Epic Cartagena Day Trip in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think it’s safe to say that the tiny island of San Andrés is one of the best travel destinations in Colombia.

However, if you ask most backpackers or travelers on the Colombian gringo trail, they probably won’t even know it exists!

So, congratulations, you just stumbled upon the best-kept secret in the Colombian Caribbean (at least among foreigners)!

In this guide, I’ll fill you in on absolutely everything you need to know about visiting this small island paradise. First up is a quick travel guide on how to get here, followed by an awesome list of the best things to do in San Andres, Colombia!

About San Andres Island in Colombia

If you check it out on Google Maps, you'll see that the island of San Andres (Isla San Andrés in Spanish) is actually quite far from the Colombian mainland and geographically much closer to Nicaragua!

As with many of the Caribbean Islands, San Andres Island has a long history of colonization (mostly by the British). Today, although the native people of San Andres, the Raizal people, don't consider themselves Colombians, the island is part of Colombian territory.

This makes this hidden gem a very unique Colombian travel destination since almost everyone speaks English (and Caribbean Creole).

Best of all, if you're already traveling in Colombia, it's very easy (and cheap) to get here from major cities. This means that you can add a beautiful coral reef island to your Colombia travel itinerary!

Where is San Andres Island?

San Andres Island is located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 750 kilometers (466 miles) northwest of the Colombian mainland. The closest city (and the place offering the cheapest flights) is Cartagena.

As you'll notice on the map below, this is quite a remote island, at least 190 kilometers (118 miles) from the closest land in Nicaragua. However, you do also have another beautiful island next door called Providencia, which forms a part of this tiny archipelago.

How to Get to San Andres Island from Mainland Colombia

By far, the easiest way to get to San Andres Island is to fly. I'm not aware of any boats that make the long journey here, and I wouldn't say there's any point in looking either.

You'll find direct flights to San Andres Island from most major cities in Colombia, including Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá. As this is a popular travel destination among Colombians, you'll find that flights are very cheap!

We ended up scoring flights for less than $30 USD each way (that's under $60 for a return flight). And, we only booked a week in advance. I believe the cheapest place to fly from is Cartagena, which takes just over an hour in the air.

One thing to know is that most Colombian airlines charge ridiculous fees for baggage. That's why I recommend leaving your larger baggage with your accommodation and just taking a small day bag (we left ours with our accommodation in Cartagena).

Tip: You can also find direct flights to San Andres from Panama city. However, flying here from other parts of Latin America is much more costly and involves some immigration hurdles.

About the San Andres Tourist Entry Tax (Tourist Card)

Unfortunately, there is a tourist entry tax that is called the Tourist Card. This seems to go up every year but currently costs 124,000 Colombian pesos (around $30) as of 2023.

When I was planning my trip, it was difficult to find a reliable source on where to actually buy this. However, I can confirm that you do need to purchase this card at your airport of departure. This isn't very clear, but your airline is responsible for selling this tourist card to you.

I flew with an airline called LATAM, and there was a separate desk at Cartagena airport (next to the check-in desk), where I was able to pay the tax by card or cash.

Although it seems that this tax has been around for quite some time, the policies are still very chaotic. On my flight, several tourists didn't seem to be aware of the tax, which held up boarding. Another annoying grievance I have with this tax is that after speaking with several Raizal people on San Andres Island, they told me that the majority of the money goes straight to Bogatá, and the people see very little of the funds.

Tip: Although tiny, San Andres Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Gustavo Rojas Pinilla) is the 6th busiest airport in Colombia! This means lines can get long and very hot.

25 Fun Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia

Okay, with the basic logistics out of the way, let's dive into this awesome list of the best things to do in San Andres Colombia!

To make things easy for you, I've included a small San Andres Island map below with all of the best spots, tourist attractions, and worthwhile things to do pinned.

1. Hire a Golf Cart Or Motorbike To Explore the Island

By far, the best way to explore San Andres Island is to rent a motorbike or Golf Cart. That's because the tiny Caribbean Island of San Andres covers an area of just 26 km² (10 sq mi). As a result, you can actually drive around the whole island in under an hour!

Prices vary depending on the season and the quality of the vehicle. However, generally speaking, motorbikes (moped/scooters) are much cheaper.

Since it was just Haylea and me, we rented a 115 cc moped, which we paid 100,000 COP per day for. This is a little pricey but was the best price we could find on the island after wasting a fair chunk of time looking around.

If you want to save time, you can reserve a moped or a hire golf cart online in advance with Viator, which includes drop-off at your hotel.

Tip: San Andres Island is an adventure playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or scooters, I highly recommend travel insurance by WorldNomads. I swear by them as they are one of the only companies offering adventure insurance with cover for things like moto & scooter rental.

3. El Acuario & Haynes Cay

If you're looking for white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, abundant sea life, and healthy coral reefs, then you'll want to check out this small island duo.

El Acuario and Haynes Cay are two small islands on the east coast of San Andres. If you take the VIP boat tour (above), you'll visit this spot. However, you can also get here by taking a boat transfer from Spratt Bight beach (read my guide in the link for more information).

El Acuario is a small but very popular sand bar island surrounded by clear, turquoise water. There isn't any vegetation here, but instead, you'll find a few small bars and seafood restaurants. This is one of the best places on the island for swimming and snorkeling!

Just over 100 meters from El Acuario is Haynes Cay, a larger, rocky island dotted with palm trees and green, tropical vegetation. The fun part about this trip is that visitors can actually walk between the islands by wading through waist-deep water!

4. JOHNNY CAY NATURAL REGIONAL PARK

Perhaps the biggest attraction and the most popular thing to do in San Andres, Colombia is to take a day trip to Johnny Cay.

This is another tiny island directly out from the main beach in town (Spratt Bight). Again, a visit to this beautiful tropical island is included in the VIP tour but you can also get here with a boat transfer.

Johnny Cay is a little larger than Haynes Cay and has an epic white-sand beach with deep, clear waters. The island is full of coconut palm trees and all-around great island vibes.

One thing to know about this attraction is that it has its own protective designation as "Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park", which means you have to pay an extra cost of 15,000 COP to get here.

6. Mar de 7 Colores (Sea of 7 Colors)

The shallow coral waters surrounding San Andres Island is nicknamed the Mar de 7 Colores, translating to the Sea of 7 Colors.

If you're lucky enough to get a window seat on the plane in, then you'll already get a glimpse of this before arriving. However, you can also make it out if you head out on one of the boat tours.

The colors are most visible on the north and east sides of the island, where the ocean hues range from a deep green to a light aqua blue. This is due to the many sand spits, deep sections, and patches of coral reefs.

Below are some photos that I captured with my drone to illustrate the famous Sea of 7 Colors!

7. La Piscinita

Being a popular travel destination, many of the best beaches in San Andres are unfortunately a little crowded. If you're looking to escape the crowds, then take your moped or golf cart over to La Piscinita on the southwest coast.

La Piscinita translates literally to "the little pool". And, this beautiful natural gem is exactly that! It's a tiny but deep, round natural cove formed by the surrounding coastal rocks. The water here is among the clearest on the island and it's a great place for swimming.

However, while there was once a bit of infrastructure here, everything was pulled down due to a 2022 Shark attack that tragically occurred here. After speaking with a local who was there at the time of the incident, he claims that this was very out of the ordinary. He explained that this was the first shark attack on the island in over 35 years and was likely caused by an anchored cruise ship chumming up the sea nearby.

Sadly, the diving board and pool ladder were removed as a result which doesn't make much sense as West View is still open– literally a few hundred meters away!

8. ParaSailing

Perhaps one of the funnest and most exciting adventure activities on San Andres Island is to go parasailing!

If you've never done this, then this Colombian Caribbean island is one of the best places to try it, since it's super affordable (just $65 USD).

Most parasailing activities run on the east coast. This is perfect since it offers the best views of the Sea of 7 Colors!

Book: Parasailing Activity over Mar de 7 Colores

9. San Andres Island Mangroves (Parque Nacional Manglares de Old Point)

Another interesting attraction on the beautiful island of San Andres is its protected mangrove reserve. This is known as the Parque National Manglares de Old Point and you'll find it just south of the main town in San Andres.

If you're driving up to town from San Luis or Cocoplum Beach, you'll see the entrance on your right. There are often many tour guides sitting here who offer kayak trips down the mangroves.

10. El Hoyo Soplador (Blow Hole)

Yes, San Andres even has its own blowhole! This is a very small hole located on the southern shores and is usually quite a popular place to visit.

If you time your visit well, you'll get a chance to see the explosion of water reaching far into the sky through the tiny hole in the rock. It's best to visit during high tide and when there is a bit of swell coming in.

At the El Hoyo Soplador blowhole, you'll also find some small rasta cafes and even a large restaurant. We visited during a popular time and there was a long line of Colombian tourists waiting for their turn to stand above the hole.

11. The San Andres Island Botanical Gardens

The San Andres botanical gardens, known as Jardín Botánico de San Andrés is located just north of San Luis on a steep road leading to La Loma.

The entrance fee is 7,000 COP for Colombian nationals and 10,000 for foreigners. Inside the gardens, you'll get an opportunity to learn all about native Caribbean plant species and walk up to the viewpoint which offers a great panoramic view of the island.

12. Rocky Cay & Cocoplum Beach

For visitors looking to relax and unwind by the sea, checking out Playa Cocoplum and Rocky Cay is one of the best things to do on San Andres!

Cocoplum Beach is a popular beach with white sand and tropical palm trees. This is one of the best beaches for swimming on the island. There are also resorts and small beach eateries all the way along.

Just opposite Cocoplum Beach is the smaller island of Rocky Cay. Appropriately named, this rocky outcrop is not more than 10 meters long and harbors just a few palm trees. Just next to it is a prominent shipwreck called Barco Encallado which ran aground here many years ago.

Apparently, it used to be the case that you could walk all the way out to the cay from the beach. However, due to the eroding sandbar, this is no longer possible.

However, if you want to make it out to this small island, you can rent a kayak from one of the resorts or shops along Cocoplum beach. The distance is just over 200 meters, which makes it an easy paddle.

13. West View

On San Andres Island, you'll notice that the East Coast is full of white sand beaches while the west side of the island is mostly rocky. In my opinion, the west coast has the most tranquil waters, especially when the prominent easterly winds blow.

One of the most popular attractions on the west coast of San Andres is a small little area called "Eco Parque West View". This is a perfect place for swimming and jumping off the diving board into crystal clear water. There's even a large water slide and the onsite bar sells beers and snacks.

The entrance fee to West View is 4,000 pesos.

One thing to know is that this can be a very popular spot! If you want to escape the crowds, head a bit further north to a small reggae bar just a few hundred meters up the road. The entrance fee to this spot is 3,000 pesos and we had the entire place to ourselves from afternoon to sunset.

14. Cueva de Morgan (Morgan's Cave)

Cueva de Morgan is another tourist attraction on San Andres Island that is best suited to families with small kids. When I first got here, I was expecting to find a cave to explore. However, Morgan's Cave is more of a small amusement park, with characters dressed up in pirate outfits and housing a replica ship.

Entrance fee: 20,000 per person

Of course, there is a small cave here as well but it's hardly the main attraction.

15. Spratt Bight Beach

Spratt Bight Beach, or Playa Spratt Bight, is the main beach on San Andres Island. It's a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters on the east coast of San Andres town.

Its popularity mostly stems from the fact that it is very close to the majority of the hotels in town. You'll find its shores lined with small sunshade tents and the main road just behind it full of street vendors.

While Spratt Bight is the most popular beach on the island, it's still worth visiting. From the shore, you'll also get an awesome view of Johnny Cay.

16. La Regatta Restaurant

If you ask a foodie what to do on San Andres Island, they'll tell you to reserve a table at La Regatta Restaurant.

This is universally known as the best restaurant on the island and offers fine dining with a spectacular beach view. They serve mostly seafood with a steep price tag. Since I don't eat a lot of seafood, I missed out on this one.

However, I did walk in to sneak a peak and kind of wish I reserved a table just for a drink at least!

17. Coco Loco Bar

If you're looking for some nightlife on San Andres, make sure to visit Coco Loco Bar. This has the most vibrant nightlife scene on the island and is located right near the northern tip.

This club is named after the popular cocktail "Coco Loco" which is a mix of rum, tequila, vodka, lime, and coconut and is claimed to have been invented on San Andres.

18. Visit Providencia Island (Back Open as of 2023)

Did you know that there are two main islands in this remote Caribbean group? The second is known as Providencia Island and is apparently even more pristine than San Andres! This island is slightly smaller but has a world-renowned dive site on its attached Santa Catalina island.

Unfortunately, the terrible storm "Lota", destroyed much of Providencia in 2021, canceling trips up until 2023. Thankfully flights from San Andres to Providencia have resumed, meaning travelers can take a day trip or an overnight trip from San Andres via a short, 20-minute flight.

Most people recommend to stay at least one night, but make sure to book your hotel on Providencia in advance.

19. Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana (First Baptist Church)

On one of the highest points on the island, you'll find the Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana the first Baptist Church. This was the first church built way back in 1847. There's also a small school which runs in the church. To enter, there's a donation required.

If you're lucky enough to climb to the top of the tower, you'll get awesome panoramic views of the coast.

20. Hang Out in the Villages of San Luis & La Loma

Tired of the nightlife? Looking for the perfect place to just chill out and do nothing at all? Make sure to visit the small local towns of San Luis and La Loma.

In the small town of San Luis, you'll find a more local scene with a few tiny shops and seaside restaurants. La Loma on the other hand is located on the "mountain" as the locals call it.

There are a few great hotels and hostels up here with great views over the coast.

21. "El Mirador" Epic San Andres Viewpoint

Okay, San Andres isn't exactly the tallest island in the world. However, if you're looking for things to do on San Andres for sunset, make sure to add "El Mirador" to your list. This is the best viewpoint that I was able to find. It's a local spot right near the old baptist church and has a large terrace with chairs and tables.

I had to pay an entrance fee of 2,000 Colombian pesos to enter which was well worth it! We were able to see all the way out to Johnny Cay and Acuarius, as well as the mangrove forest and beaches running from the north to the south.

22. Alligators at Laguna Big Pond

One of my favorite attractions on San Andres is the Laguna Big Pond. This is a small man-dug pond housing over 100 alligators (caymans). The entrance fee to the Laguna Big Pond is 5,000, which includes a local guide.

Our guide showed us around the pond and explained all of the different plants and vegetables they grow there (including a suspicious green weed).

Apparently, the alligators are not native to the island but were brought here when an illegal wildlife trade flight had to make an emergency landing on the island.

We had a blast photographing the caymans and having a chat with our awesome guide.

23. Go Sailing

Is there a better place to go sailing than in the Caribbean?

While most of the boat trips and island hopping adventures on San Andres are small motorized vessels, there is one particular trip onboard an awesome catamaran that makes the experience much more fun.

You can book this sailing trip in advance on Viator but make sure to get in early as it's only a small-group trip that is capped to 8 passengers.

24. I Love San Andres Island Sign

Okay, this is probably the most touristic thing you can do on San Andres Island. However, if you want to take an iconic vacation flick, head down to the I Love San Andres Sign (Letras I Love Sai), which you'll find on the palm-lined southwest coast.

25. Coconut Palm Tree Road

To round off this San Andres Island travel guide, I have one more attraction for you. This unofficial photo spot is known as the "Calle de las Palmeras", or Palm Tree Road.

If you've got yourself a scooter or golf cart, head down to the southern tip of the island. You'll find this iconic road between the El Hoyo Soplador (the blowhole) and El Mateo Beach.

Where to Stay on Isla San Andres

San Andres Island Packing List

Still in the planning stages of your island adventures? Before you go, make sure to pack appropriately. Below is a quick packing list to San Andres.

• Grayl Water Bottle - you can't drink the tap water on this island. I've used this awesome filter bottle for the past few years and have saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfills in the process.
• Sunscreen - is much more expensive on San Andres than on mainland Colombia. Try to get a reef-safe one to avoid damage to the underwater ecosystems.
• Bug spray - while there isn't any Malaria here, dengue fever does exist. It's best to wear bug spray, especially at dawn and dusk
• Water shoes - this is a good idea to bring when visiting the rocky cays
• Snorkel set - otherwise you will need to rent this if you would like to snorkel on the islands
• Hat - it gets hot here!
• Swimmers - a no-brainer
• Travel towel - a light and compact drying solution. Great if you're trying to squeeze on the plane without checked baggage
• Flip flops - no need for anything fancy here!

More Travel Tips for Visiting San Andres Island

Need more travel tips? This section should answer all your questions about traveling on San Andres!

• Duty-free shopping - due to the location and some strange tax laws, this is a popular place for Colombians to come to do some duty-free shopping. Visitors will find loads of fancy stores in the heart of town (El Centro)
• Vendors - unlike many other parts of Colombia and Latin America, the vendors on San Andres are not pushy at all. These people are a very laid-back and friendly bunch!
• Internet connectivity - unfortunately, the wifi on the island is usually a bit lacking. However, if you get yourself a local Colombian sim card, the 4G is more than adequate and quite affordable. Claro is the best one since they fitted a 726-kilometer undersea data cable to the island.
• Food - there's certainly no shortage of places to eat on San Andres Island. Besides La Regatta, my favorites were the Jerk Chicken Spot (San Luis) and Eat Alley (El Centro).
• Baggage - trust me, the best way to travel to San Andres is to take carry-on luggage only. This makes things much cheaper and easier. If you're traveling in Colombia, leave your larger bag at your hotel or hostel before flying.
• Expenses - while San Andres is certainly more expensive than other parts of Colombia, the prices really aren't that bad, especially in comparison to other parts of the Caribbean.
• Getting around - there's a public bus that runs from El Centro down both coasts. The price is fixed at 3600 Colombian pesos (no matter where you get off). Alternatively, you can also get a moto-taxi for a little more (depending on the destination). However, moto-taxis have an absolute max price of 9,000. Taxis also run on the island but are much more expensive.
• Popularity - San Andres island is a very popular holiday destination for Colombians and other people from Latin America. However, you won't find many gringos here.

When is the Best Time to Visit San Andres?

San Andres is a great place to visit all year round! The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius, making it an awesome holiday spot!

While San Andres does experience a rainy season, this is usually pretty tame with just a nice shower in the afternoons. Regardless, most people will tell you that the best time to visit is April to May or November to December.

How Many Days Should I spend on Isla San Andres?

This is a subjective question and will definitely depend on what you want to do on San Andres Island. I spent 5 days here and, as you can see, I got to explore quite a bit! Since this isn't a very big island, you can easily cover most of the attractions in under a week.

In saying that, if you're looking for some downtime or to simply relax, I'd say 4-7 days is more than adequate.

More South America & Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide featuring the 25 best things to do in San Andres, Colombia!

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other travel blogs and articles to Latin America. If you're planning your backpacking adventures in Colombia, make sure to check out some of my favorite destinations including Minca, Palomino, Cartagena, Medellín, and the mind-blowing Tayrona National Park!

Otherwise, here's some more travel inspiration below.

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia - Everything You Need to Know
• Marinka Waterfalls in Minca - Complete Guide (Colombia)
• Palomino Beach Colombia - Where the Mountains Meet the Caribbean
• Rosario Islands Colombia - Plan an Epic Cartagena Day Trip in 2023
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia – 2023 Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Looking for an awesome island-hopping adventure to the outer cays of San Andres? I’ve got you covered.

In this quick guide, I’ll fill you in on how to get to Haynes Cay and El Acuario (also called Rose Cay). These are two small islands that you can actually walk between! I’ll give you the best options for getting here, give you some tips to enjoy an awesome day out, and include some of my photography to get you inspired.

#3 out of 25 Best Things to do on San Andres, Colombia

About Haynes Cay & El Acuario on San Andres

After Johnny Cay, El Acuario San Andres is the most popular day trip from town. That's because this awesome sand bar island has some of the clearest water you'll find in the area, which is exactly why it's earnt its nickname, the "acuario natural de san andrés".

The benefit of visiting this cay is that you actually get access to Haynes Cay (Cayo Haynes or Cayo Córdoba / Islote Córdoba) as well. This rocky island sits directly next to El Acuario and visitors can wade through the shallow waters between them on their visit.

While El Acuario is not much more than a long strip of white sand with a few bars and small restaurants on it, Haynes Cay is dotted with palm trees and has a green grassy area with loads of wildlife.

Where is Acuario & Haynes Cay?

Acuario and Haynes Cay are located just 1 mile (1.6 km) from the eastern shores of San Andres Island (Colombia). It's situated in the crystal clear waters of the mar de 7 colores (sea of seven colors) outside Puerto de San Andrés.

However, most boat trips heading to the cays depart from Playa Spratt Bight near El Centro. Expect a roughly 10-minute boat transfer to the cay from here.

Since Acuario doesn't have any vegetation, it's difficult to spot from the mainland. However, you can easily spot the palm tree-lined shores of Haynes Cay from the coast, especially from Rocky Cay and the popular Cocoplum Beach.

How to Get To El Acuario & Haynes Cay From San Andres

While there are many boat tour companies departing from San Andres town, there are two main options that most travelers should consider.

Option 2: Boat Transfer Option From Spratt Bight

If you just want to visit El Acuario and Haynes Cay, then you can also just pay for a direct boat transfer. The best business is run by "Coonative Brothers" and they have an office in the big yellow building on the shores of Spratt Bight Beach.

The trip costs 30,000 Colombian pesos for two hours, 40,000 pesos for 4 hours, or 50,000 pesos for 6 hours.

Departure times are 9:30 am, 11:30 am, and 1:30 pm.

Tip: Since there is no environmental fee like on Johnny Cay, visiting El Acuario is actually cheaper even though it is further away.

What to Expect at El Acuario

As soon as you arrive at El Acuario, you'll understand why this is such a popular vacation spot. The water here is a fluorescent shade of light blue with visibility for days! This makes it great for swimming and snorkeling.

The island itself is very small, less than 80 meters by 20 meters. On its shores are some reggae-themed restaurants and bars serving snacks, seafood, beers, cocktails, and coconuts.

There are also some shade umbrellas and beach chairs that visitors can hire for a fee.

The best place for swimming at Acuario San Andres is on the northern sand strip, which reaches out a couple of hundred meters into the Caribbean Sea. Here, there are some small coral patches and you will generally find fewer people.

Furthermore, just to the north is a popular spot where locals feed the "manta rays". In truth, these are not mantas, but a large species of saltwater stingrays. This usually happens daily at around 1 PM.

To the south of this beautiful sandy island is a long roped buoy line leading over to Haynes Cay. You'll often see people crossing between the islands all day since the water depth is only around 1 to 1.2 meters. We crossed a few times during our visits and felt comfortable carrying our bags above our heads without getting anything wet.

What to Expect at Haynes Cay

If you visit El Acuario, then of course you have to cross over to Haynes Cay as well. Honestly, I'm a little surprised that this rocky island is not more famous than its bare, sandy neighbor.

Unlike Acuario, Haynes Cay has a lot of rich, green vegetation. There are plenty of restaurants and bars here also, with a large, grassy area shaded by tropical coconut palms.

In the island's interior, you can walk through a forested track where you will find loads of blue lizards and large iguanas. If you're looking for a place to swim at Haynes Cay, the northern beach is much better, since the other side of the island is rocky.

Facilities

Below is a list of facilities that you can expect to find on El Acuario.

• Restaurants
• Bars
• Umbrella shades
• Beach chairs
• Snorkel rental equipment

And, on Haynes Cay.

• Restaurants
• Bars
• Tour shop (for snorkeling tours)
• Snorkel gear for rent or to buy
• Toilet

Where to Stay on San Andres ISland

Travel Tips For a Great Boat Trip

Before you head out on your boat trip to El Ecuario and Haynes Cay, here are some final travel tips.

• El Acuario is very busy, but Haynes Cay usually has fewer people
• Acuario is a better cay for swimming since its shores are sandy
• Try to avoid visiting Acuario on weekends and public holidays if possible.
• High season on San Andres Island is July and April (especially holy week)
• Try to time a trip with good weather conditions - although you can expect calm waters most of the time, these two islands provide very little shelter from strong winds and seas
• The rainy seasons on San Andres run from September to December and then again from May to June. However, you can expect rain for just an hour or two a day.
• Bring sunscreen (the best is Blue Lizard), water (to avoid plastic bottles), a hat, and reef shoes (it is a little rocky to cross over to Haynes Cay).

More Colombia & San Andres Travel INspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this boat trip guide to visiting Haynes Cay and El Acuario from San Andres Island, Colombia.

Looking for more inspiration for things to do on the islands? Check out some of my other guides to South America and the Colombian Caribbean below.

• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 - Tayrona National Park
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post How to Get to Haynes Cay & El Acuario San Andres (Rose Cay) – Colombia appeared first on We Seek Travel.

San Andres is up there with one of the most amazing tropical islands in the Caribbean. Whether you’re visiting from the coast of Nicaragua or jumping on a quick flight from Colombian cities like Cartagena, then you’ll want to make sure to add Johnny Cay Island to your list of things to do!

This beautiful sandy cay (pronounced in the Caribbean as “key”) is just a quick boat ride away from the northern end of San Andres. Here, you’ll discover white-sand beaches dropping into crystal clear water and dense palm trees growing out from its center, almost like rasta dreads!

Trust me, you’ll want to make a visit to Johnny Cay (also named Islote Sucre). And, to help you out, I’ve written this comprehensive guide on how to do just that.

#4 out of 25 Best Things to do on San Andres Island

About Johnny Cay Island in San Andres

After exploring the Colombian island of San Andres and all its beautiful reefs and cays including the popular Haynes Cay and Rose Cay (El Acuario), I'm being honest when I tell you that Johnny Cay is the most beautiful.

That's because this tiny palm-tree-specked oasis truly is the picture-perfect Caribbean island! Its white-sand shores and translucent turquoise waters make it one of the most beautiful beaches on San Andres. In fact, its Spanish name, Cayo Sucre, comes from its incredibly white sand (which looks almost like refined sugar).

Also, since the main beach faces the west, it's protected from the strong seasonal easterly winds that can whip up during the high season. As a result, this beach is one of the best on the island for swimming!

Here's the Best Johnny Cay Boat Tour

Want to visit Johnny Cay? Book this VIP boat tour, visiting Johnny Cay as well as;

• Mangrove Tour
• Aquarius
• Mar de 7 Colores
• Manta Rays

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Where is Johnny Cay?

If you haven't yet made it to San Andres, it's important to know that this island is located just off the coast of Nicaragua but is part of Colombian territory (although it is 715 kilometers or 445 miles from the Colombian Mainland).

Isla Johnny Cay is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) off the northern coast of San Andres. As a result, visitors will need to take a bot tour to get to this famous cay. This departs just off one of the main beaches near San Andres Town called Playa Spratt Bight.

This beautiful coral reef island is located within the San Andrés Ecological Park with its own designation of "Johnny Cay Regional Park". As a result, you need to pay a 15,000 Colombian Peso entrance fee (which should be included in your boat price).

How to Get To Johnny Cay From San Andres

If you're interested in getting to Johnny Cay from San Andres, you have two main options. The first is to book a full-day boat tour that includes Johnny Cay, Aquarius, Bahia, Mangroves, and Manta Rays. The second option is to get return boat transport from Spratt Bight.

I've done both of these options and I highly recommend the first since it offers a lot more value.

Below I will go into a bit more detail.

Option 1: "VIP" San Andres Island Hopping Tour

Option 2: Boat Transfer Option

The first time I visited Johnny Cay, I booked the boat "tour" as below. It took a while to find the best price since many of the tour operators (especially around the La Regatta Restaurant) were charging ridiculous prices.

However, I found that the best price was offered by the guys at Coonative Tours. You'll find their large yellow building in the middle of Spratt Bight beach. This is a popular way to visit Johnny Cay island, which means you'll be crammed onto a speed boat with up to 30 other tourists.

The cost is 50,000 COP for a return transfer. However, you'll only get a few hours on the island.

In all honesty, this option is okay if you just want to visit Johnny Cay in the morning or afternoon. However, if you're looking for a full-day experience with more highlights, then the "VIP" tour offers way more value.

Tip: You can park your golf cart or scooter on the road near Spratt Bight.

What to Expect at Johnny Cay Island

As you approach this small Caribbean Island, you'll already notice the water turn from an already beautiful deep blue to an almost translucent turquoise. The sun bounces off the shallow coral reefs below to form a beautiful tropical scene that's hard to put into words.

As we hopped off the boat, we were greeted by a very friendly rasta man who owns a small bar on the island. He sells beers and cocktails like coco loco and piña colada, as well as a fresh tropical lunch (usually Pescado frito).

Boats typically land on the western side of the islet, where you'll find the best sandy beaches. Here, you'll also find white tent shades and a few plastic chairs with umbrellas to escape the sun.

However, the best shade comes from the natural coconut palm forest on the island's interior. This is a scenic, grassed area just beyond the thin line of restaurants and bars. There are also loads of iguanas in this area!

Of course, the highlight of this popular island cay is its incredibly clear water. On both occasions, we spent hours swimming and snorkeling around the edge of the islet.

Facilities on Johnny Cay

Below are the facilities you'll find on this small Caribbean Island.

• Toilets
• Restaurants / bars
• Chairs with shade umbrellas
• Outdoor freshwater shower

Where to Stay on San Andres Island, Colombia

Tips for Visiting Johnny Cay

Honestly, if you're making a trip out to San Andres, you simply have to visit Johnny Cay. However, it's good to know that this is a very popular vacation spot.

So, to make your experience more enjoyable, below are a few tips.

• Try to avoid visiting Johnny Cay on weekends and public holidays if possible.
• The high season on San Andres Island is July and April (especially holy week)
• Try to time a trip with good weather conditions - if there is an easterly wind blowing, Johnny Cay is actually a great beach for swimming since the palm trees shelter its western banks resulting in calm waters
• The rainy seasons on San Andres run from September to December and then again from May to June. However, you can expect rain for just an hour or two a day.
• Unfortunately, you cannot fly a drone here as Johnny Cay falls within the San Andres no-fly zone (due to the nearby airport)

More Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

Did you enjoy this quick guide to visiting Johnny Cay on San Andres Island, Colombia? If so, make sure to check out similar articles below for more inspiration for your Colombia or South America travel planning!

• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 - Tayrona National Park
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Rosario Islands Colombia - Plan an Epic Cartagena Day Trip in 2023

The post How to Get to Johnny Cay, San Andres Island (Cayo Sucre) – Colombia appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think it’s safe to say that flamingos are among the most spectacular birds on the planet. Their spectacular color and strange characteristics mean that spotting them can be one of the most unique travel experiences you can have in Colombia.

But, where can you see Flamingos in Colombia?

In this guide, I’ll give you a complete rundown of where to go to see these spectacular birds in their natural habitat and how to get here! I’ll also include some photographs to inspire you to take this fun wildlife tour in the Colombian Caribbean.

About the Colombian Flamingos

Flamingos in Colombia are actually quite rare. However, there is one particular spot on the northern coast of Colombia where visitors can spot flocks of the American flamingo.

These pink flamingos are generally not migratory birds, which means they stick around this region all year round.

A fun fact is that these guys get their color from their diet! This is the result of metabolized microscopic algae containing carotenoids. As the flamingos eat this algae and brine shrimp (which also feed on the algae), it results in its famous pink feathers.

See the Flamingos!

Want to see the wild flamingos of Colombia for yourself? Book the same day tour that I went on by visiting the link below.

Book Your Tour Now

Where to See Wild Flamingos in Colombia

The best place to see wild flamingos in Colombia is at the Los Flamencos Sanctuary (Santuario de Fauna y Flora Los Flamencos) near the village of Camarones in La Guajira.

This is close to the main northern port city of Santa Marta.

This sanctuary is a protected wetlands region just outside of the desert peninsula. This is quite a remote region of Colombia, and visitors will need to hire a licensed guide to enter the sanctuary.

How to Get to Los Flamencos Sanctuary in La Guajira

While it is possible to drive or get a bus to Camarones from Santa Marta, the best way to see flamingos in Colombia is to take a tour from the backpacker town of Palomino. You can click that link for detailed information on how to get here first.

This tiny beach town is located just west of Tayrona National Park and is a popular spot on the backpacker trail, especially after visiting nearby Minca.

Flamingo Tour From Palomino

The best way to see the flamingos is to book the flamingo sanctuary day tour online in advance.

While initially, this seems a little steep, you definitely get your money's worth. The tour includes:

• Private transport to Camarones (1 hour)
• Sailing tour with a local guide to spot flamingos
• Lunch included at Camarones
• Return transport.

The local guide is a member of the community near Camarones and is very friendly and informative.

Book Your Tour Now

What to Expect on a Palomino Flamingo Tour

Interested in spotting flamingos from Palomino? Below I've summarized my experience so you know what to expect!

The Road to the Flamingo Sanctuary

From Palomino, you can expect a drive of approximately 1 hour to reach the turn-off to the flamingo sanctuary. This turns off at the town of Perico in La Guajira, just before Camarones.

Along the way, you'll get great views of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range to your right. Also, since there are no ATMs in Palomino, it might be a good idea to ask your driver to stop by one at Mingueo.

The Sailing Journey

From Perico, we took a dirt road for approximately 20 minutes before arriving at the beach inside Los Flamencos Sanctuary. Here, our local guide Jose rigged up his traditional sailing vessel before embarking on a journey out to find the flamingos. Unfortunately, this region of Colombia has been suffering a severe drought for the past few years. As a result, the banks have receded and the flora has turned to a mostly dry forest.

However, Jose told us that these beautiful pink birds are still always hanging around here, and you have a very high chance of spotting them. We sailed quickly across the shallow water and within 20 minutes we spotted a huge flock of flamingos!

Flamingo Spotting

We were fortunate enough to spot many different bird species on our adventure to find the flamingos. We noticed that many species had turned red or pink, even the ibis!

Jose lowered the sail as we approached the pink flamingos. He told us that these birds can be frightened easily, so it's best to approach slowly.

Below are some photos that I was able to capture during my visit.

Side-Trip to Camarones

After approximately 2 hours of sailing and bird spotting, we were back in the car and on our way to Camarones. Our guide took us to a local spot on the beach called Pastora Choles, where we enjoyed a seafood lunch with coconut rice.

More Wildlife Photos from Los Flamencos Fauna & Flora Sanctuary

More Colombian Travel Inspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this quick guide on how to find wild flamingos in Colombia. For more South and Central America travel guides, check out the useful list below!

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia - Everything You Need to Know

The post Where to See Wild Flamingos in Colombia in 2023 (Palomino) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Tayrona National Park is a world-renowned natural paradise located on the Caribbean Coast of Northern Colombia. Hoards of tourists flock to this park every year to witness its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range.

But, if you were like me and traveling around South America, you might initially be a little confused about how to actually plan a trip to Parque Tayrona.

That’s why, after spending a few days in this rich and unique place, I’ve formulated this travel guide featuring 15 things to do in Tayrona National Park. I’ve also included all the information you need to enjoy an epic experience in one of Colombia’s best regions.

Quick Things to Know About Visiting Tayrona National Park

Wait!

Before you dive into this Tayrona National Park travel guide, here are some quick things you need to know.

• Tayrona National Park is closed every February
• You can pay for your entrance ticket at the gate - you also need your passport at the entrance
• It's best to bring your own drinking water - I swear by my Grayl Purifier bottle and haven't purchased a plastic water bottle since buying it three years ago!
• Plastic bags are banned in Tayrona - don't bring any in
• There are no ATMs - bring enough cash
• You can camp on the beach or stay in cabañas - I have loads of recommendations below
• You can't swim at many of the beaches - strong currents and waves have resulted in many drownings in this park
• Tayrona NP Travel insurance is compulsory - don't worry this is just 5,000 COP per day at the entrance
• If you're camping, don't bring large backpacks - instead, leave them at your accommodation (Masaya Hostel in Santa Marta & Dreamer Hostel in Palomino allow you to do this).
• Tayrona Park gets real busy in high season - it's busiest in December & January and on weekends & public holidays

Where is Tayrona National Park in Colombia?

Tayrona National Park, or Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona in Spanish, is a 150 km² (60 mi²) protected area located in the Magdalena department on the northern Caribbean Coast of Colombia.

This coastal strip of tropical jungle, coral reefs, and pristine beaches is tucked between the sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains and accessible via highway 90 (Troncal del Caribe).

The closest city to Tayrona Park is Santa Marta, which is approximately 37 kilometers away (from the main entrance of El Zaino).

The Two Park Entrances

This park is quite large. So, before we dive into what to do in Tayrona National Park, it's important to know that there are actually two different entrances, each accommodating a different area of the park.

These are

• El Zaino - the main entrance and best access point to Cabo San Juan Beach
• Calabazo - the secondary entrance providing the best access to Playa Brava Beach

The entrance fee (currently 57,500 COP), is the same at both gates, and you can pay this in cash or with a credit card.

Both entrances are located along the same road, with Calabazo being the closest to the city of Santa Marta. Below I'll go into more detail on how to get here.

How to Get to Tayrona National Park

In order to get to Tayrona National Park, it's best to first make your way to Santa Marta. Santa Marta has its own airport, and a popular bus transport hub connecting other cities in Colombia.

Once you make your way to Santa Marta, you'll have two main options to get to either entrance gate of Parque Tayrona.

Option 2: Independent Travel Using Public Transport

If you want to visit this National Park independently, then you can take either of the following public transport options:

• Cheap public bus from Santa Marta Mercado - best if you're already in Santa Marta or coming on the Colectivo from Palomino or Minca
• Coach bus from Santa Marta Bus Terminal - best if you're already coming into Santa Marta Bus Station on a coach from another Colombian city
• Taxi or private transport - a little expensive at around 80,000 Colombian pesos but can be cost-effective if shared

Cheap Public Bus to the El Zaino Entrance

The best way (also the cheapest) to get to the El Zaino Entrance is to take the local green bus running from the Santa Marta Public Market (Mercado Público de Santa Marta).

This bus runs every 30 minutes or so, starting from 8:00 AM, and costs just 8,000 Colombian Pesos. Expect a journey of just over an hour from Santa Marta before stopping at a parking lot just outside the park.

When you're at Mercado Santa Marta, just ask any local for "Tayrona" and they'll point to the bus you need.

If you're coming from Minca, the colectivo takes you directly to the public market, where you hop off directly next to the Tayrona bus.

Tip: Colombia is an adventure traveler's playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers. For longer backpacking trips, check out the nomad insurance by SafetyWing.

Coach Bus From Santa Marta Bus Station

For travelers looking to get to Tayrona National Park from other parts of Colombia like Cartagena or Medellín, you also have the option to take a more expensive, but much more comfortable coach bus to the entrance.

This is a convenient option if you end up at the Santa Marta Bus Station (Terminal de Transportes de Santa Marta), which is approximately 20 minutes outside the actual city. However, if you're already in Santa Marta, or if you're coming from Minca or Palomino, this wouldn't make much sense.

For the rest of you, the best and safest bus company is called Brasilia, and you can book all your tickets in advance using the convenient Busbud website.

Arriving at El Zaino Tayrona National Park Entrance

Once you arrive at the El Zaino entrance, you'll undoubtedly be greeted by several salespeople offering you accommodation in the park. If you're looking to camp, then it's actually easiest to just pay the camping fee here (since it's the same price inside the park anyway).

Afterward, travelers will also need to pay the Taryona National Park entrance fee, which is currently 57,500 COP per person (seems to increase every year).

Additionally, it is now a requirement to pay for Tayrona medical insurance at the entrance as well, which is 5,000 pesos per day. You can pay both of these fees with your credit card

Tip: There are no ATMs within the national park. So, make sure you bring enough cash with you to last the duration of the trip.

If you want to stock up on fruit, food, or water, you can do so just outside the entrance. Here, you'll also find a few local restaurants to grab a bite to eat as well.

Once you're finally inside Tayrona Park, you'll see a bunch of shared colectivo vans just past the entrance. These guys run back-and-forth transport trips to the end of this main road for 5,000 pesos.

Tip: for the best chance of spotting wildlife, including the very rare cotton-top tamarin, then you should know that this main road is actually the best place to do so! While most tourists take the colectivo, I was told this in advance, and this is where I spotted most of the monkeys, sloths, birds, and other animals you see in my photos on this blog.

Where to Stay in Tayrona National Park

Most backpackers will tell you that you only need one or two nights of camping at Cabo San Juan Beach. However, I actually recommend spending at least a night in the jungle interior as well.

This will give you the best of both worlds, waking up to a beautiful sunrise over turquoise waters AND spending the night in the forest amongst rare and protected wildlife!

You don't need to book your camping in advance but I highly recommend booking accommodation in Tayrona National Park online as there aren't many options available. Here are my recommendations.

• Ecohabs Bamboo - beautiful Ecohabs (bamboo cabins) nestled in the deep jungles and surrounded by wildlife.
• Mirador del Parque - a budget option for staying inside Tayrona National park. Sleep in dorms or private jungle huts high on a hill overlooking the jungle canopy.
• Ecolodge Playa Brava - amazing beach huts located right on Playa Brava beach.

Tip: While you can also stay outside the entrance, it's worth booking accommodation inside the park since otherwise, you'll need to pay for multiple entrance tickets (which are expensive).

More on Booking.com

Awesome Things to do in Tayrona National Park

Okay, now with the logistics out of the way, let's dive into this list of unmissable things to do in Tayrona National Park, Colombia!

1. Hike to the Beautiful Beaches

While I came to Tayrona for the wildlife, most visit for a chance to see its pristine beaches.

And, it's no wonder, since the beaches on the Tayrona Park coastline are undisputed as the most beautiful in Colombia.

Picture endless stretches of palm tree-lined white-sand beaches with crystal clear waters backing onto dense, tropical jungle. There are no roads connecting the beaches, meaning you'll have to get here on foot! Luckily, there's a long and well-established hiking trail running the length of the coast and connecting all the best beaches.

Some of the best include

• Cabo San Juan del Guía (most popular)
• Playa Brava (alternative camping beach via the Calabazo entrance)
• Playa Cristal
• Arrecifes
• Castilletes and Canaveral
• La Piscina

While there are many more picturesque beaches to visit here, you should know that many are not safe for swimming. That's because the strong currents and large swell that can occur on this stretch of coastline have led to several drownings in the past.

Make sure to monitor and follow the signs. Visitors will find large red "no swimming" signs throughout Parque Tayrona.

2. Spot Wildlife

For nature lovers, the absolute best thing to do in Tayrona National park is to go wildlife spotting!

This national park is extremely rich in biodiversity and is home to a wide range of mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles, some of which you'll find nowhere else on earth.

The main reason why I came to visit Tayrona National Park was for a chance to spot the elusive and extremely rare cotton-top Tamarin. This particular monkey is one of the most critically endangered primate species on earth and only lives in this tiny slice of forest in Northern Colombia.

More animals you can see in Parque Tayrona include:

In addition, here are some more interesting animals that I wasn't able to spot on my visit but roam the park

• Crab-eating fox
• Jaguar
• Oncilla (Tigrillo)
• Ocelote
• 350+ different bird species

3. Go Birding

Tayrona National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise.

With over 280 species of birds, it is one of the most biodiverse parks in Colombia. From colorful parrots like the Blue-headed Parrot to rare hummingbirds, spotting or photographing birds is one of the funnest things to do here!

Travelers and nature lovers will find birds all throughout the park, including on the nature trails, main roads, and beaches.

4. Camp on Cabo San Juan

Cabo San Juan is by far the most popular beach in Tayrona National Park, and it's easy to see why. The white sand and turquoise waters are simply breathtaking, and the beach is sheltered by a lush forest.

However, what really draws the crowds to Cabo San Juan is the opportunity to camp right on the beach. There are various options, from hammock camping to renting a tent, or just simply pay for a site and bring your own.

If you've got a bit of time in Tayrona Park, I'd recommend camping one night on the beach, then staying in one of the huts in the jungle. This gives you the best of both worlds, from watching the sunrise over the Caribbean sea from your tent to immersing yourself in the deep forests of Tayrona.

You'll find the camping area directly in front of the beach, and you can book your tent when you arrive at the park entrance or when you get to the beach.

Tip: Remember to bring your own mosquito nets!

About the Lost City Trek: The 4-day hike to Ciudad Perdida is by far one of the most amazing things you can do in Northern Colombia. If you're in the region, make sure to include this on your itinerary. You can find out more information and book your trek at GetYourGuide.

5. The 9 Piedras Hike

Looking for a short loop hiking trail in Tayrona National Park? Make sure to check out the 9 Piedras trail.

This is an approximately 1.15 mile (1.8 kilometer) track near Cañaveral and Arrecife.

9 Piedras translates to "9 stones", and the trail basically follows a path connecting nine large boulders that are culturally significant to indigenous groups in the region.

Since you'll detour off the main beach trail, this short hike offers an excellent opportunity to avoid the crowds and spot more unique wildlife. Along the path, you'll pass a large lagoon, where it's sometimes possible to spot alligators.

6. Visit The Nudist Beach (Playa Nudista)

If you stroll down the popular Colombian tourist beaches of Rodadero or Taganga, there's no doubt you'll be asked by tour operators to take a boat trip to the "nudist beach", or playa nudista.

I'm not sure why this is such a huge selling point, but in reality, the infamous "nudist beach" is far from a beach sprawling with naked bodies. In fact, this is one of the longest stretches of sand on the coast, and there's almost always nobody here.

Also, it's impossible to swim at this beach, since the currents and swell are quite dangerous. However, if you're hanging around crowded Cabo San Juan and wondering what to do to escape the chaos, simply walk the short 10-minute track to Playa Nudista for a relaxing vibe.

7. Spot One of the Rarest Primate Species in the World

Okay, you already know that Tayrona National Park is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and abundant wildlife.

Visitors come from all over to experience the park's unique ecosystem, but one of the most unique things to do in Tayrona is to go on a monkey-spotting expedition. Deep within the park's jungle canopy lives one of the world's rarest primates, the cotton-top tamarin. This tiny monkey is endemic to the region and can be difficult to spot, but visitors who are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one are sure to never forget it.

As mentioned above, the best place to get a chance to see these monkeys is actually on the main road in! Instead of taking the shared colectivo van, walk the length of the road from the entrance. Move silently and keep your eyes peeled on the canopy for any movement.

8. Walk Among the Palm Trees

For many, an escape to the Caribbean is an elevating change from the hustle-and-bustle of city life. If this sounds like you, I'm sure you'll be stoked to hear that the beaches in Tayrona National Park are lined with beautiful coconut palms!

After camping on Cabo San Juan, get up early the next day and snap some awesome vacation photos under the beautiful palm trees on the way back to El Zaino!

9. Witness the Snow Capped Peaks of The Sierra Nevada Mountains

For me, one of the most amazing attractions in Tayrona National Park is the chance to witness the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The best time to see the mountains is early in the morning when they are illuminated by the rising sun. Visitors can hike to one of the many lookout points in the park, for stunning views of both the mountains and the coastline. Whatever you do, make sure you don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience

What you’re seeing is the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which is the tallest coastal mountain range in the world. The highest peak, Pico Cristóbal Colón (Gonawindua), reaches a whopping 5,775 meters (18880 feet) above sea level.

10. Take a Boat Ride

If you're not yet in Tayrona Park but looking to visit on a day trip, then one of the best options is to jump on board a full-day sailing trip with Luis and his team!

While there are several boat trips departing for the famous Tayrona beaches from Santa Marta, Taganga, and Rodadero, this is by far the best.

Visitors will set sail for the natural park aboard a 17-meter (56-foot) sailing yacht. This trip is a small-group adventure, with just 25 maximum passengers. You'll get snorkeling equipment and lunch included as well!

11. Camp on Playa Brava Instead

As I quickly touched on above, Cabo San Juan beach is one of the most popular beaches in this Colombian National Park. For those who'd prefer a more chill experience, I have an alternative for you.

Instead of entering at the main El Zaino entrance, enter at Calabazo, which you will find just a little earlier on the road.

From here, it's the same deal. You can walk the length to the coast, or take a shared van to Playa Brava. This is a much quieter beach and also a great one for swimming.

Similar to Cabo San Juan, you can simply bring your own tent, or pay per night for a hammock or one of the existing tents. Alternatively, travelers will also find one of the best places to stay in Tayrona here, called Ecolodge Playa Brava.

12. Enjoy Fresh Coconuts

Among the most refreshing things to do in Tayrona National Park is to drink fresh coconuts! As you might expect, the park is full of coconut palms, which means the supply is never-ending.

However, I'm not sure how the locals feel about you climbing the palms to pluck your own. Instead, pay one of the indigenous community members who you'll see selling coconuts along the popular hiking trail to Cabo San Juan del Guia beach.

The going rate for these fresh drinking coconuts is just 5,000 pesos each, which is approximately $1.30 USD!

13. Go Snorkeling

As you can tell, there's absolutely no shortage of things to do in Tayrona National Park! Snorkeling is just one of the many activities on offer and can be a great place to spot a diverse range of marine life.

In fact, many people seem to forget the fact that the park contains a huge 30 square kilometers (12 mi²) of protected maritime area as well!

Of course, you'll need to get lucky and visit on a calm day for the best visibility. But, if you do, you swim amongst reef fish, turtles, and even dolphins.

Unfortunately, the seas were a little rough during my time exploring the park and therefore I don't have many great photos of the underwater scene.

14. Sleep in a Hut in the Jungle

Those that are short on time and wondering if they should camp or stay in the jungle, you've got a difficult decision to make. Again, I highly recommend trying to squeeze at least two nights to get the most out of the experience.

However, if I personally had to make a recommendation, I'd choose a jungle hut over beachside camping. That's because it's possible to camp on the beach in many destinations around Latin America. But, to be able to sleep in the middle of the jungle rainforest, surrounded by rare animals and tropical wildlife is a truly unique experience.

I chose to stay at the Mirador del Paraque, and I absolutely loved it. The owners have a long lineage in the area and are super friendly. The great part about this hut accommodation is that it's situated on top of a small hill. As the name suggests, this means guests will get to experience amazing views over the canopy and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

15. Make New Friends

Did you know that Tayrona National Park is one of the best places in Colombia for backpackers and adventure travelers to meet like-minded people? This is especially true if you decide to camp at one of the beaches.

At sunset and even into the night, there's usually a great vibe happening on the beach. So, grab a cerveza and enjoy!

What About El Pueblito?

If you read an older, outdated article about activities and things to do in Tayrona National Park, you'll often find a visit to El Pueblito listed.

However, the truth is that this small indigenous village and the archeological site have been closed since late 2018. This was a decision by the local authorities to protect the indigenous culture.

While you can still hike from Cabo San Juan beach to Playa Brava via El Pueblito, entering the small village is no longer permitted.

Tayrona Packing List - What to Bring

Wondering what essential items to bring to Tayrona National Natural Park? Below I've got you covered!

• Bug repellent (bug spray) - okay, this is probably the most important Tayrona travel tip. Bring bug repellent! I've stopped using deet and now swear by the natural alternative from Sallye Ander
• Bug cream - something to treat the inevitable bites. Again, the Sallye Ander cream helps reduce itching.
• Hat and sunscreen - I'm Aussie so I might be biased, but Blue Lizard makes the best natural sunscreen on earth.
• Grayl water purifier - No, you can't drink the tap water in Tayrona. Except if you have this water purifying bottle. I've used it all over the world (including tap water in India), and saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfill in the process.
• Camera or GoPro - this amazing biological park is totally safe, meaning you can have your camera out!.
• Travel quick-dry towel - a must have travel essential for quick-dry convenience
• Imodium - trust me, you might want to bring some, just in case.
• Headlamp or flashlight - useful for nightly expeditions to spot rare wildlife
• Flip Flops - embrace the beach life!

FAQs About Visiting Tayrona National Park

Wildlife Photography from Parque Tayrona

I hope you've enjoyed this travel guide! This is currently up-to-date and reflects accurate information. I'll continue to update this guide in the coming years so that my readers always have a reliable source of information for their adventures in Colombia and South America.

Before you go, here are some more examples of wildlife photography that I was able to capture on my trip.

More Colombia Travel Guides

And that's a wrap for this ultimate travel guide featuring 15 amazing things to do in Tayrona National Park, Colombia!

Below are some more travel articles and adventure inspiration for Colombia and South America.

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 - Tayrona National Park
• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia - 2023 Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Comuna 13 Tour in Medellín - Everything you Need to Know (2022)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Tayrona National Park is a pristine chunk of protected tropical rainforest on Colombia’s northern Caribbean Coast. For many, this park is a must-stop on the Colombian travel route, offering plenty of amazing things to do from wildlife spotting to relaxing on tropical beaches.

If you ask anyone (especially the backpacker crowd) where to stay in Tayrona National Park, the first answer is usually to spend a night camping on Cabo San Juan beach! This is the most popular beach in Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, and arguably the most beautiful!

So, to help you better plan your trip, I’ve written this detailed travel guide to visiting Cabo San Juan del Guía in Tayrona National Park. I’ll include all the information you need to know, including how to get here, where to stay, what to expect, and of course, 10 useful tips for visiting!

Where is Cabo San Juan Beach

Cabo San Juan beach is located within Tayrona Park on the Caribbean Coast in Northern Colombia. You'll find it located beside other famous beaches including Playa La Piscina, and Playa Nudista (nudist beach).

Below is the exact location of Playa del Cabo to help you find it.

How to Get to Cabo San Juan Beach

To get to Cabo San Juan, there are two options, you can book an organized day trip from the city of Santa Marta, or get here independently. Below I'll break down each option in more detail.

Option 2: Independent Travel to Cabo San Juan (public Transport)

In order to get to this beautiful beach independently, you'll first have to make your way to the main entrance to Tayrona Natural National Park.

While there are two entry points, the main one is called El Zaino Entrance (Tayrona La Entrada Principal), which is the most convenient park entrance leading to Cabo San Juan Beach.

Cheap Public Bus to the El Zaino Entrance

The best way (also cheapest) to get to the El Zaino Entrance is to take the local green bus running from the Santa Marta Public Market (Mercado Público de Santa Marta).

This bus runs every 30 minutes or so, starting from 8:00 AM, and costs just 8,000 Colombian Pesos. Expect a journey of just over an hour from Santa Marta before stopping at a parking lot just outside the park.

When you're at Mercado Santa Marta, just ask any local for "Tayrona" and they'll point to the bus you need.

If you're coming from Minca, the colectivo takes you directly to the public market, where you hop off directly next to the Tayrona bus.

Tip: Colombia is an adventure traveler's playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or go hiking, then make sure you have travel insurance for adventurers. The best option currently is WorldNomads, which cater to young adventure travelers. For longer backpacking trips, check out the nomad insurance by SafetyWing.

Coach Bus From Santa Marta Bus Station

For travelers looking to get to Cabo San Juan Beach and Tayrona National Park from other parts of Colombia, you also have the option to take a more expensive, but much more comfortable coach bus to the entrance.

This is a convenient option if you end up at the Santa Marta Bus Station (Terminal de Transportes de Santa Marta), which is approximately 20 minutes outside the actual city. However, if you're already in Santa Marta, or if you're coming from Minca or Palomino, this wouldn't make much sense.

For the rest of you, the best and safest bus company is called Brasilia, and you can book all your tickets in advance using the convenient Busbud website.

Tip: You can also arrange a private taxi from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park, but expect to pay around 80,000 - 100,000 Colombian pesos for this.

El Zaino to Cabo San Juan Tayrona National Park

Once you arrive at the El Zaino entrance, you'll undoubtedly be greeted by several salespeople offering you accommodation in the park. If you're looking to camp on Cabo San Juan Tayrona, then it's actually easiest to just pay the camping fee here (since it's the same price anyway).

Afterward, travelers will also need to pay the Taryona entrance fee, which is currently 57,500 COP per person (seems to increase every year). Additionally, it is now a requirement to pay for Tayrona medical insurance at the entrance as well, which is 5,000 pesos per day. You can pay both of these fees with your credit card

Tip: There are no ATMs within the national park. So, make sure you bring enough cash with you to last the duration of the trip.

Once you're finally inside Tayrona Park, you can start the journey to Cabo San Juan. While you can walk from the entrance, the easiest way is to take the colectivo vans at the entrance to the start of the trail. This is 5,000 pesos per person and takes you all the way to the coast to the start of the trail.

In order to get to Cabo San Juan, you need to hike in. This is a very scenic trail but takes around 2 hours (9 kilometers or 5.5 miles), following a mostly-flat jungle track.

Along the way, you'll be granted loads of wildlife spotting opportunities and pass some more beautiful beaches, including Arrecifes, Playa Arenilla, and La Piscina beach.

This hike is very easy to follow and can even be slightly crowded. Since Cabo Beach is the most popular in the park, most people will be heading here.

10 Things to Know About Cabo San Juan Del Guia in Tayrona National Park

With all of the logistics out of the way, let's dive into what I promised. 10 important things to know about visiting Cabo San Juan Del Guía in Tayrona National Park

1. You Have to Hike In

As you already know by now, in order to get to this beautiful place, you have to be prepared to hike in.

This is quite a long walk, especially if you're not an experienced hiker in the tropics. Remember to bring your own water!

The trail winds its way up the coast, passing sections of exposed beaches, palm tree forests, and dense tropical forests. There's lots of wildlife on the way too, so keep an eye out for monkeys!

Tip: Since you have to hike in, I highly recommend not bringing a large backpack with all your travel gear. Instead, leave this at your hostel in Santa Marta or Palomino. Masaya Hostel in Santa Marta and Dreamer in Palomino allow this.

2. You'll Need to Bring Your Own Water

In order to keep this beautiful destination clean, plastic is not permitted inside Tayrona National Park. This means finding plastic water bottles is difficult but also keeps them out of the Caribbean Sea!

As a result, if you're heading into Cabo San Juan Beach, you'll want to bring your own water. Just remember to pack them out!

Many travelers purchase large gallon bottles at the entrance to the park. However, I simply relied on my Grayl Purifying bottle to filter the water available at the campsite.

3. You Can Camp on the Beach

Camping on Cabo San Juan is perhaps one of the biggest draws for many travelers.

If you're thinking about camping, then it's good to know that you have the option to sleep in a tent or hammock.

The prices are as follows:

• Hammock in the main camping area: 40,000 COP per hammock
• Watchtower hammock: 50,000 COP per hammock
• Tent site (bring your own tent): 20,000 COP per person
• Tent in camping area: 40,000 COP per person

If you're choosing a hammock, I highly recommend bringing insect repellent and your own mosquito nets.

There are basic toilet facilities (1,000 pesos to use them), as well as a cold, outdoor shower.

If you're going to camp, I recommend spending one-night camping and spending a full day at Cabo San Juan beach the next day. This will give you enough time to enjoy the area.

4. It's a Great Beach for Swimming

Perhaps the main reason why Cabo San Juan beach is so popular is that it's the safest in the area for swimming. This beach is in a semi-sheltered cove, resulting in less exposure to currents and large swell. There are also lifeguards on duty and a safety net strung through the crystal clear waters.

However, remember to always monitor conditions and don't swim anywhere unless you are confident in the water.

5. Cabo San Juan is a Popular Beach!

Yes, you might already know this, but Cabo San Juan is one of the most popular beaches in the region and by far the most popular in Tayrona National Park!

This is especially true in the peak season, where you'll want to avoid public holidays and even weekends if possible.

For those wanting to escape the crowds, consider camping on Playa Brava instead. This is a less-popular alternative and easily accessible from the Calabazo entrance.

Tip: The high season in Colombia runs between June to July and December to February.

6. There's a Restaurant At the Beach

If you're worried about food when staying at Cabo San Juan beach, don't be! There's a large restaurant just a short walk from the shore offering big meals at reasonable prices.

There's also another small restaurant just a little further down, which mostly sells small snacks.

7. Insurance is Compulsory

This is one for those of you who skipped the logistics section above. Tayrona medical insurance is compulsory, even if you have your own travel insurance.

Luckily, this isn't too expensive, at just 5,000 Colombian pesos per day. You'll pay this fee at the entrance to the park. I've been told that this fee used to be 2,500, so let's hope it doesn't keep doubling every few years!

8. There are Lifeguards at the Beach

If you're worried about safety, it's good to know that there are lifeguards at the Cabo San Juan beach.

While I visited in the busy season, I was also told that they monitor this beach year-round and are there in the low season as well.

Related: Palomino Beach - Everything You Need to Know

9. Cabo San Juan is Very Safe

Cabo San Juan del Guía is a very safe beach. Unlike in other parts of Colombia, crime is very uncommon here.

So, for nature lovers and photographers, walking around with a camera is completely fine.

10. The Hike to El Pueblito is Closed

Unfortunately, this information wasn't available to me online when I visited. However, as of 2018, the hike from Cabo San Juan beach to the indigenous village of El Pueblito is now closed. This is a sacred place and is now closed off from tourism.

This happened just prior to the pandemic in 2018 and was due to a request of the indigenous people living in the communities (not a result of Covid). While you can technically still hike from Cabo San Juan along the track towards Playa Brava, it's best to take the Calabazo entrance instead.

Alternative Accommodation in Tayrona National Park

Most backpackers will tell you that you only need one or two nights of camping at Cabo San Juan Beach. However, I actually recommend spending at least a night in the jungle interior as well.

This will give you the best of both worlds, waking up to a beautiful sunrise over turquoise waters AND spending the night in the forest amongst rare and protected wildlife!

You don't need to book your camping in advance but I highly recommend booking accommodation in Tayrona National Park online as there aren't many options available. Here are my recommendations.

• Ecohabs Bamboo - beautiful Ecohabs (bamboo cabins) nestled in the deep jungles and surrounded by wildlife.
• Mirador del Parque - a budget option for staying inside Tayrona National park. Sleep in dorms or private jungle huts high on a hill overlooking the jungle canopy.
• Ecolodge Playa Brava - amazing beach huts located right on Playa Brava beach.

Tip: While you can also stay outside the entrance, it's worth booking accommodation inside the park since otherwise, you'll need to pay for multiple entrance tickets (which are expensive).

More on Booking.com

More Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

And, that's a wrap for this travel guide to Cabo San Juan del Guía Beach in Tayrona National Park, Colombia.

Below you'll find more Colombia travel guides and inspiration for backpacking in South America.

• 10 Awesome Hikes in Minca, Colombia
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 4 Awesome Minca Waterfalls - Complete Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia - Everything You Need to Know
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Cabo San Juan in 2023 – Tayrona National Park appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Traveling in Colombia and looking for a laid-back beach-side village to kickback?

Discover Palomino Beach, an endless strip of smooth sand in the region of Dibulla, La Guajira, on the Northern Caribbean Coast of Colombia. This is very much backpacker heaven, where it feels like nothing in the world really matters.

In this quick blog post, I’ll outline everything you need to know about visiting Playa Palomino, so you’ll know exactly if this is the right beachside paradise for you.

Featured in: 15 BEST Things to do in Palomino

About Palomino Beach

Palomino Beach is located at the end of the backpacker village of Palomino, just northeast of the famous Tayrona National Park and roughly two hours from the nearest city of Santa Marta.

While Palomino is quickly becoming engrained in the Colombia backpacker trail, it still feels like early days in terms of tourism. Here, there are no ATMs or stable electricity, and even the upper-class accommodation options are bamboo huts with palm-leaf roofs.

Palomino Beach is one of the main attractions in town. While the beach isn’t as idyllic as what you’ll find across the pond on the Caribbean Islands, it’s still an awesome place to hang out, learn to surf and enjoy some downtime after hiking in the Sierra Nevada.

Note that the water can get a little rough at Palomino Beach, with strong currents and large waves. Similar to many beaches at Tayrona National Park, swimming is definitely not recommended unless you’re a strong swimmer and the conditions are calm.

Don’t Miss: The famous Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida). This is one of the best experiences you can have in Northern Colombia, especially if you’re a fan of nature, adventure, and history. If you’re planning ahead, book with GetYourGuide (link above) and you’ll get free cancellation.

What to do on Palomino Beach

1. Take a Surf Lesson

Want to learn to surf in Colombia? I wouldn’t say that Palomino Beach has the best surf break in South America, but you will find small surfboard rentals and schools along the main strip.

While I visited, the weather was a little windy, resulting in choppy seas. Still, there were a few locals shredding on their shortboards.

2. Relax Under the Palm Trees

The sleepy town of Palomino is all about kicking back. If you head down to the playa, you’ll find an endless row of coconut palm trees where you can relax, read a book, and just enjoy the moment.

Don’t Miss: 21 Best Things to do in Minca

3. Go Tubing

River tubing is one of the most popular things to do in Palomino. Almost every third shack on the way to the beach offers tubing experiences, where you’ll be taken upstream on the Palomino River to float all the way down to the beach.

This only costs 40,000 per person.

4. Kite Surfing

Yes, you can even go kite surfing at Palomino Beach! You’ll find a surfboard rental place offering kitesurfing lessons on the main road to the beach (Carrera 6a), just opposite the famous Barba Beach Arabic Food restaurant.

Where to Stay Near Palomino Beach

Still planning your trip and looking for the best places to stay on Palomino? Below are my top three picks, which are some of the highest-rated as well.

• Tiki Hut Hostel – This eco-hostel offers awesome rooms built from natural fibres, right on the edge of the Colombian Caribbean. Tiki Hut is one of the top-rated hostels in all of Colombia!
• Dreamer Hostel – If you stayed at Dreamer in Santa Marta, you’ll already know that this awesome hostel chain has offers some of the best vibes in every destination!
• Palomino Sunrise – Stay in a beautiful eco-hut right near the edge of the beach and adjacent to the Palomino River. This is another of Colombia’s best-rated accommodations!

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Tips for Visiting Palomino

Ready to hit the beach? Here are some final travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

• Bring insect repellent – the sandflies in this region are notoriously bad!
• Bring cash – there are no ATMs in Palomino. The closest is 20-minute motorbike trip away in Mingueo
• Don’t drink the water – this goes without saying. I filter the tap water here with my GRAYL purifying bottle. Actually, I haven’t purchased a plastic bottle in 3 years since buying it!
• Watch out for strong currents – this isn’t the safest beach to swim at if you are not a strong swimmer.

Related: Cabo San Juan Beach in Tayrona National Park

More Colombia Travel Guides

I hope this quick guide to Palomino Beach has inspired you to check out this laid-back hippy town!

While you’re here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other articles to plan your trip through Colombia and South America.

• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia – 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia – Everything You Need to Know
• Where to Stay in Medellín – 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post Palomino Beach Colombia – Where the Mountains Meet the Caribbean appeared first on We Seek Travel.